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PRINCETON  .  NEW  JERSEY 
PRESENTED  BY 

The  Estate  of 
Samuel  Henry  Gapp 

,A5 


Digitized  by  tine  Internet  Arcliive 
in  2014 


littps://arcliive.org/details/provincialdigestOOmora 


or  KiHcn 


THE 


DEC   14  13G4 


Provincial  Digest: 


SUPPLEMENTARY  TO 


THE  RESULTS  OF  THE  GENERAL  SYNOD  OF  1879. 


REVISED  EDITION 

ORDERED  TO  BE  PUBLISHED  BY 


The  Provincial  Synod  of  the  Northern  District  of 
THE  American  Province  of  the  Unitas  Fratrum 
(Moravians),  held  at  Bethlehem,  Pa., 
September  19  to  October  3,  i888. 


BETHLEHEM,  PA.: 

MORAVIAN  PUBLICATION  OFFICE. 
1889. 


THE  PROVINCIAL  DIGEST. 


Resolved.,  I.  That  the  collection  of  rules  and  regulations, 
int'ludinfi:  those  of  the  present  Synod,  be  printed  under  the 
title  of  "The  Provincial  Digest." 

II.  That  the  Committee  appointed  to  control  the  appli- 
cation and  disbursement  of  the  Special  Publication  Fund  be 
requested  to  furnish  the  necessary  money. 

III.  That  a  copious  index  be  prepared  to  facilitate  reference. 

IV.  That  "The  Provincial  Digest"  be  distributed  gratis 
and  liberally  in  our  congregations. — (Journal,  1881,  pp.  104, 105.) 

Besohml,  That  as  soon  as  possible  after  the  adjournment  of 
this  Provincial  Synofl,  there  shall  be  published  revised  editions 
of  "  The  Provincial  Digest"  and  "  Provinzial  Ordnung,"  with 
such  omissions  and  additions  as  are  rendered  necessary  by  the 
legislation  of  the  Provincial  Synods  of  1884  and  1888,— 
(Journal,  1888,  p.  107.) 


CONTENTS. 


[Of  two  figures  separated  by  a  comma,  the  first  indicates  tlio  page,  the 
other  the  marginal  reference.] 


Chapter  I.— The  Brethren's  Church,  .         .  1,  1-4 

Relation  to  the  Brethren's  Unity  of  the  American 

Province;  Declaration  oi  Principles,         .         .  1,1-^ 


Chapter  II. — Doctrine  and  Ministry  of  the  Woro,  2,  l-:>,  S 

Confortnitj'  to  the  Doctrinal  Standards,       .         .  "2,  1 

Qualifications  for  the  Ministiy,     .                  .  2,  2 

Licensing  of  Candidates,         ....  2, 3 

Family  Worship  and  the  Instruction  of  Youth,  .       2,  4-3,  1 

The  Text  Book,    ......  3.  2 

Religious  Instruction,        .         .         .         .  .             3,  3 


Chapter  III. — The  Liturgy,  (Ritual  .\nd  Worship),       3,  4-S,  5 


Uniformity  Desirable,    .         ,         .         .  . 

3,  4, 

Diversity  of  Modes,  ..... 

4,  1- 

Observance  of  the  Lord's  Daj-, 

Use  of  the  Litany,  ..... 

4,  6-5, 

Services  of  the  Passion  Week, 

Use  of  the  Surplice,  .         .         .  . 

5,  6, 

Infant  Baptism,  ...... 

5,  8, 

Immersion  of  Adults,  .... 

5,  10-6, 

Status  of  those  Confirmed  or  Baptized, 

6. 

The  Right  Hand  of  Fellowship,  . 

6, 

Communion  Seasons,  ..... 

(>, 

Abstaining  from  the  Lord's  Supper. 

6, 

Thanksgiving  Service,    .         .                  .  . 

6.  6-7, 

Preparation  for  the  Lord's  Supper, 

Memorial  Days  and  the  History  of  our  rhurch,  . 

7,  4-7. 

(iii) 

Unceasing  Prayer,         .....  8,  1 

Love-feasts,     .         .         .         .         .         .  .         8, 2, 3 

Sunday-school  Hymn-book,    ....  8,  4 

The  Minister  and  the  Church  Music,      .         .  .            8,  5 

Chapter  IV. — The  Govebnment  of  cub  Saviour,  .            8,  6 

September  16th  and  November  13th,  ...  8,  6 

Chapter  V. — The  Use  of  the  Lot,         ...       9,  l-}>,  5 

A  Hearty  Endorsement,          .         .         .         .  f ,  1, 2 

Special  Rules  for  the  Province,     ....  9,  3-5 

Chapter  VI.— Conqregations  and  their  Organization,  10, 1-17,  3 

Membership,        ......  10,  1 

Lay  Activity,  .         .         .         .         .         .  .         10,  2,  3 

Pastoral  Visits,     ......  10,  4-6,  11,  2 

Earnest  Preaching,    .         .         .         .         .  .            11,  2 

All  should  be  interested,         ....  11, 3 

Non-resident  Members,      .         .         .         .  .           11, 4 

Faithfulness  enjoined,    .         .         .         .         .  11,  5,  6 

Removal  of  Members,        .....  12,  1-3 

Contributions,      ......  12, 4 

Parsonages  to  be  furnished,         .         .         .  .            12,  5 

Pro|)er  Financial  Support,       .         .         .         .  12,  6, 7 

Systematic  Heneticence,      .          .          .          .  .             13,  1 

Cliii n  il  l'i  o))crty  is  Trust  Property,  .          .          .  13,2-14,1 

Annual  Reports  of  Treasurers,     .          .          .  .  14,2 

Ciiun-h  Collections,        .....  14,3 

Admission  of  Congregations,        .         .         .  .  14,4 

i;eee|>tioM  of  Members,  .         .         .          .         .  14,  5 

Choir  or  Class  System,        .          .         .         .  .14, 6-15,  5 

Celebration  of  Choir-Days,       ....  15,  6 

Paroehial  Schools,      .           .           .           .           .  .          16,  1-3 

Siniday-srhools  anil  Hible  Classes,     .          .          .  16,4-17,2 

Care  of  the  Poor  and  the  Sick,       .          .          .  .  17,3 

Chapter  V^ir.— Discipline,        ....  17,4-27,1 

Discipline  JOssential,  .         .         .         .          .  .  17,4,5 

Discipline,  .          .          .          .          .          .          .  17,  fi,  9 

Menilieis  lo  lie  instructed  in  the  Discipline,      .  .          18,  1-4 

Degrees  ,,r  Dis<  i|ilino,    .....  18,5-8 

-Mode  of  K.xereise,   19,  1,  2 

Erroneous  or  Unscriptural  Views  of  Doctrine,      .  19,  3 
(iv) 


Complaints  concerning  Members,          .         .         .  19, 4 

Announcement  of  Exclusion  and  Re-admission,  .  19,  5 

Church  Rules,   19,  6-20,  3 

Preparation  of  Church  Rules,  ....  20,  4 

Resistance  to  Church  Rules,         .         .         .         .  20,  5 

Incorporation  Does  not  Free  from  Rules,    .         .  21,  1 
Consent  of  the  Provincial  Elders"  Conference  necessary 

for  incorporation,     .                   ...  21,  2 

Annual  Reports,       .          .         .          .          .         .  21,  3,  4 

Church  Diary,       .         .         .         .         .          .  21,  5,  6 

Are  the  Rules  Observed?    .         .         .         .         .  22,1 

Church  Books,     .         .         .   '      .          .          .  22,  ^-2.3,  5 
Church  Catalogues,    .         .         .         .          .          .23,  6-24,  4 

Books  to  be  Provided,    .....  24,  5 

Relations  to  the  Civil  Government,        .                   .  24,  6,  7 

Secret  Societies,    .         .         .         .         .         .  25,  1  * 

Worldly  Amusements,       .         .         .         .         .  25,  2,  3 

Intemperance,      ......  25,  4-27,  1 

Chapter  VIII.— The  Servants  of  the  Church,      .  27,  2^0 

Ministers  are  not  Independent,  and  owe  Obedience,  27,  2-4 
Congregation  Conferences,  .         .          .         .          .27, 5-28,  3 

Who  are  Members  of  the  Church  Council,            .  28,  4 

The  Sisters  may  also  be  made  Members,          .         .  28,  5 

General  Business  Meeting,      ....  28,  6 

Joint  Meetings  of  Church  Boards,  .         .  .28,  7-29,  1 

Who  are  Eligible,          .....  20,  2 

The  Ministers  and  all  other  Members  of  Church 
Boards,  bound  by  the  decisions  of  the  respective 

Boards,      .         .         .         .         .         .         .  29,  3 

Qualifications  for  Eldership  and  Trusteeship,        .  29,  4-6 

Two  Boards  Desirable,        .....  30,  1-4 

Privilege  of  Veto  in  certain  Cases,     .          .         .  30,  5-31,  1 

Privilege  of  Nomination  and  Petition,    .         .          .  31,  2,  3 

Retirement  from  the  Ministry,          ...  31,  4 

The  Theological  Semmary. 

Moral  Responsibility  of  Students,          .          .         .  31,  5-.32,  2 

Faithfulness  to  be  Inculcated,  ....  32,  3 

Qualifications  of  Professors,         .          .          .          .  32,  4 

Location  and  Present  Arrangements  of  the  Seminary,  32,  .5-34,  1 

A  New  Building,      .         .         .                           .  34,  2-6 

Expectations  of  the  Church,    ....  34,  7-35,  2 

Pledge  of  Office  from  Professors,  ....  35,  .3,  4 

Prayer  Day  for  the  Seminary.  ....  3.5,  5 

Annual  Collection,     ......  35,  6-36,  1 

(V) 


Connection  with  Nazareth  Hall,         .          >         .  36,  2-5 

fsc  ,,r  Tdl.acro   36,6 

Inilci>cn.lonl  lMnaiici;il  Existence,      .          .          .  36,7-37,8 

Acl  or  Incorporation,           .....  37,8-38,4 

Heininaries  entitled  to  Oiricial  Publications,          .  39,  1 

Private  Preparation  for  the  Ministry,     ...  39,  2-4 

Course  of  Study,  ......  39-40 

(!hai>tior  TX.— Thk  Ministry  and  Ordination  to 

Tin;  .Ministi:y,    .        •   41,  1-6 

The  Prcsl.ylcratc,   -        41,  I 

Rule  for  I  he  Nonnnation  of  Bishops,      .          .          .  41,2 

Assistants  lo  l)c  oinhiined  Deacons,     .                    .  41,  3 

Suspension  IVoni  tlic  Ministry,      .          .          .          .  41,  4 

Questions  at  Ordinations,         ....  41,  5 

Aooluths,                  .         .         .         .          .         .  41,  6 

CiiAi'TKR  X.— The  Constitution  of  the  Brkturen's 

Unity,       .         .         .         .         .         .         .42,  1-94,  3 

Introduction,        ......  42,  1 

(Jeneral  Pniidaniental  Characteristics  of  the  (Jonsti- 

tntion,  .  .  .  .  .  .  .42,  2-44,  1 

yl.— fJKNERAi.  Synods. 

Tiie  Wovk  of  (  Jenoral  Synods,      .         .         .         .  44,  2-4 

Powers  of  (ipneral  Synods,      ....  44,5 

M.  iiil.crs  ,.|-  a  (Jcncral  Synod,       ....  45,1-46,4 

lOlfc-tioii  nC  I )('lo<iaics  lo  a  ( ieneral  Sji'uod,    .         .  47,1^ 

Prepai-atioiis  for  a  ( k'ncral  Synod,           .          .          .  47,5 

Rules  ol'  I'rocedii  1-0  at  a  Ueiioral  Synod,       .          .  48,1-49,1 

The  Gei-nian  Version  Decisive,      .         .         .         .  49,2 

Expenses  of  General  Synods  and  tlieir  Defrajanent,  49,  3 

S.— The  Unity's  Elders'  Conference. 

Tiie  Sui)roino  Administrative  Roard  of  the  Unity,     .  49,  4-.50,  1 

()r<rani7,ation  of  tlie  lenity's  Elders'  Conference,    .  50,  2-51,5 

Riij;lits  and  Duties  of  tlie  Unity's  Elders'  Conference,  52,  1-54,  3 

l<;i(^ction  of  tlic  Unity's  Ehlers'  Conference,          .  54,  4-56,  1 

Killini;  of  Vacancies  in  the  Unity's  Elders'  Conference,  56,  2-57,  2 

On  A'isitalions,      ......  57,  3 

I'.al lots  for  the  Supply  of  Vacancies,       .         .         .  57,4 

Provincial  Synods. 
a.  Oettrral  Rules  nnil  Principles. 

The  Duties  and  Functions  of  Provincial  Synods,       .  58,  1-59,  3 
(Vi) 


b.  Provincial  Constitution. 

1.  Special  Iiu-uinheiu  ies  of  the  Provincial  Synods  of 

the  Northern  District  of  tlie  American  Province,  .'>{),  4-00,  1 

2.  Members  of  Provincial  Synods,  .  .  .  01,  1 
Additional  Article,        .....  01,  2 

c.  Provincial  By-Laws. 

Organization  of  the  Provincial  Synod,    .         .         .  02,  1,  2 

The  next  Provincial  Synod,     ....  02,  3-7 

Rednction  of  Membership,          .         .         .         .  02,  8 

Election  of  Delegates  to  the  General  Synod,          .  03,  1-4 

Biusis  of  Representation,     .         .         .         .          .  03,  5 

Number  of  Delegates,    .....  63,  0-7 

Election  of  Delegates,         .....  64,  1-0 

Right  to  Representation,  ....  64,  7-65,  3 
Ordained  Home  Missionaries  are  Full  Members  of 

Provincial  Synods,  .....  05,  4 

Expenses  of  Provincial  and  District  Synods,    .         .  05,  5-00,  4 

Promulgation  of  Resolutions,  ....  06,  5 
The  Provincial  Digest,        .         .         .          .          .66,  6-67,  2 

Duty  of  Members  to  Attend,    ....  67,  3 

Reports  of  Officers  and  Boards,     ....  67,  4,  5 

Reports  of  Congregations,        ....  67,  6-68,  3 

Sermons  before  the  Synod,  .....  C!»,  1,  2 

Advisory  Members,        .....  6it,  3 

Rules  of  Order,   69,  4-73 

The  Provincial  Elders'  Conference. 

a.  General  Rules  and  Principles. 

The  Supreme  Executive  Boards  of  the  Individual 

Provinces,          .         .         .         .         .         .  73,  1,  2 

Rights  and  Duties  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Con- 
ferences,   .         .  .  .  .  .  .73,  3-74,  4 

b.  Provincial  Constitution. 

Duties  and  Functions  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Con- 
ference,         ......  74,  5 

Alterations  of  the  Constitution,    .         .         .         .  75,  1 

c.  Provincial  By-Laws. 

The  Provincial  Elders'  Conference,    ...  75,  2-5 
Rnles  for  the  Election  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Con- 
ference,     .         .         .         .         .         .         .75,  0-76,  1 

Filling  of  Vacancies  in  the  Provincial  Elders'  Con- 
ference,         .         .          .          .         ...  70,  2-77,  1 

Organization  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference,    .  77,  2 

Minutes  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference.      .  77,  3,  4 

Annual  Statistics,      .         .         .         .         .         .  77,  5 

Annual  Succinct  Report,          ....  77,  0 

Official  Visitations,    .         .         .         .         .         .  78,  1-3 


(vii) 


Districts  and  District  Synods, 
Provincial  By-Laws, 


78,  4-81,  6 

79,  2-81.  f) 


Finances  of  the  American  Province. 

Control  and  Objeots  of  the  Sustentation  Fund,          .  Hi,  7,  8 
Act  of  Incorporation  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Con- 
ference and  Supplement  thereto,       .         .         .82,  1-8;?,  5 

The  Presejit  Financial  Crisis,  ....  84,  !-&">,  0 

The  Boarding  Schools,        .....  8;"),  7-86,  2 

Financial  Prohibition,    .....  80,  3,  4 

The  Annual  Abstract,         .....  815,  5 

General  Principle  of  Management,    ...  86,  6 

Investment  of  Funds,         .         .         .         .         .  86, 7 

Gifts  and  Bequests,         .....  86,  8 

Expenses  of  the  Administrative  Government,  .         .  87,  1-4 

The  Pension  of  Ministers,        ....  S7,  r)-88,  :5 

Right  to  Sustentational  and  Educational  Privileges,  .  88,  4-8 

Ainiual  Collection  for  Retired  Ministers.     .         .  89,  1-4 

Retirement  from  Office,      .....  89,  5,  6 

Educational  Privileges,  .....  89,  7-90.  1 

Systemization  of  Collections,        ....  90,  2-6 

Provincial  Trust  Funds,          ....  9(t,  8-91,  1 

Oliio  Conference  and  Western  Sustentation  Fund,      .  91,  2 

On  Raising  Certain  Capital  Funds,     .          .          .  91,  :'.  9J,  1 

Tlu^  Newport  and  ( 'Inireli  Extension  Funds,     .          .  92,2-4 

Tlie  Spei-ia!  Pnl)lication  Fund,            .          .          .  92,  5 

Tlie  Joint  Board,   92,  6-93,  6 

The  Provincial  Archives,         ....  93,  7-94,  2 

Congregational  A rcliives,    .         .         .         .         .  91,3 

Chapter  XI.— Foreign  Missions,  ....  94,  4-97,  4 

A  Missionary  Meeting  at  each  Synod,         .         .  94,  4 

The  Mission  in  Alaska,   94,  5-9<),  1 

l'l(>dge   of  Future   Faithfulness  and  the  Modes  of 

showing  it,           ......  9.3,  2-97,  4 


Chapter  XII.— Activity  for  the  Kingdom  of  (ioD 

in  Christendom,         .....  97,  5-122,  2 

A.  Missions  in  Bolicinia  and  Moravia,  .  .  .  97,  .")-98,  6 
D.  Home  Missions  and  Church  Extension, 

Oliiccls  .if  ll..nie  M  issions,            ....  98,7 

Conli-ol  of  Missionaries,           ....  98,  8 

Organization  of  Missions,    .          .         .         .         .  f)9,  1 

Admission  iis  a  Regular  Church,        .          .         .  99,  2 

Unpromising  Fields,           .....  99,  3-100,  1 

Incitement  to  Solf-Snpi)ort,      ....  100,2 

(viii) 


SprGtid  of  tho  AVork,           ,         ,          ,  , 

100 

3-101,  2 

Building  ot  Churches,  .... 

101 

^  I 

Home  IVlission  Societies,  .... 

Mission  Festivals,  .... 

'   '  ' 

Synodal  Home  Mission  Meeting,  , 

103,  1 

Financial  Support  and  Collections, 

103,  2-(i 

News  of  the  AVork,  ..... 

103,  7 

The  Home  Mission  Debt, 

103,  8 

New  York  German  Church, 

104,  1-3 

The  Provincial  Board  of  Church  Extension, 

104,  4-100,  5 

Charter  of  the  Board  of  Church  Kxtensiou, 

106, 

&-107,  5 

The  Relative  Functions  and  Duties  of  the  Prov 

ncial 

and  District  Boards  of  Church  Extension,  . 

107,  6 

Christian  Union,  ..... 

108,  1-8 

The  American  Bible  Society, 

.  108 

9-109,  2 

Corresponding  Delegates,        .         .  , 

109,  3 

Education  of  Youth. 

In  our  Church  Schools,       ....  109,  4-110,  3 

Teachers  are  Cherished  Servants  of  the  Church,    .  110,  4-6 

Duty  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  and  the 

Principals  towards  the  Schools,    .         .         .  110,7-112,2 
Act  of  Incorporation  of  Young  Ladies'  Seminary  at 

Bethlehem,  Penna.,  .....      112,  3-113,  2 
Act  of  Incorporation  of  Linden  Hall  Seminary,  Lititz, 

Penna.,      ......  113,  3-114,  3 

Nazareth  Hall,  115,  1,  2 

Act  of  Incorporation  of  Nazareth  Hall,  .         .  115,  3-116,  2 


Church  Publications. 

Moravian  Publication  Office,  ....  116,  3-117,  7 

A  History  of  the  Brethren's  Church,           .          .  117,  8 

Appendix  to  the  Text  Book,         ....  118,  1 

The  Moravian  Manual,   .....  118,  2,  3 

The  Sunday  School  Hymn-Book,  ....  118,  4 

Communion  Liturgies,  .....  118,  5-8 

Questions,        .......  119,  1-3 

Financial  Rules,  etc.,     .....  119,  4-6 

The  Editorial  Committees,  .         .         .         .         .  119,  7,  8 

The  Moravian. 

Creative  Resolution,      .....  120,  1 

Course  of  the  Paper  Sanctioned  and  Prescribed,        .  120,  2 

The.Church  Paper  is  Indispensable,  .         .          .  120,  3 

Payment  of  Correspondents  and  Writers,        .         .  120,  4 

Increase  of  Circulation,          ....  120,  5 

(ix) 


Briider  Botscha/ter. 

Creative  Resolution,  .... 

120,  6 

Also  Indispensable, 

121,  1 

Call  for  Support,  .... 

121,  2 

To  be  Tssue.l  Weekly,  . 

121,  3 

Enlarcroiiu  lit  I'ei  uiitted, 

121,4 

The  l.ittlr  Misxioiutr,/. 

Cr.!ati\c  lU'Solution,   121,  5 

l>uty  of  Ministers  and  Sunday-scliool  Superintendents,         121,  (5 

Dcr  Mission.s  Freund. 

Creative  Resolution,  .....       122,  1,  2 

Index,  ....... 


THE  PROVINCIAL  DIGEST". 
SUPPL[M[NTAHY  TO  THE  RESULTS  OF  THE  GENERAL  SYNOD 

O        18  7  0 


CHAPTER  1. 
THE  brethren's  CHURCH. 

§  8,  4.*    Relation  to  the  Brethren's  Unity  of  the  American  Pro 
vince;  Declaration  of  Principles. 

Whereas,  The  settlement  of  principles  i"enders  easier  the 
decision  of  special  cases  which  may  arise,  therefore 

Resolved,  I.  That  this  Synod  recognizes  the  fact  that  it  is  i 
only  as  an  integral  part  of  the  Brethren's  Tnity  that  the 
American  Province  has  anj'  right  lo  picscnt  scyduali'  exist- 
ence as  a  Church  among  the  Churdics  ol  mn  land. 

II.  That  this  Synod  declares  that  it  is  tinnly  hfhi  l)y  the  2 
bond  of  doctrine,  ritual,  discipline,  constitution,  the  work 
of  education,  home,  foreign  and  Bohemian  missions,  which 
unites  the  several  Provinces  of  our  Church  into  a  Unity  of 
Brethren. 

III.  That  this  Synod  further  declares  with  regard  to  our  ii 
own  Province,  that  the  interests  of  all  jiarts  are  one  and  the 
same  and  indivisible. 

IV.  That  this  Synod  disapproves  of  all  appeals  lo  sec-  4 
tional  feeling,  or  assumed  sectional  interests,  and  further,  of 
all  threats,  open  or  implied,  as  contrary  to  the  spirit  of  the 
Brethren's  Unity.    (Journal,  1881,  pp.  37,  38,  .39.; 


*  The  references  are  to  the  sections  and  snb-divisions  as  given  in 
the  authoritative  German  Version  of  I  lie  Kesults  of  tlie  (Jeneral 
Synod  of  1879.  The  numbers  of  the  suli-divisions  are  wanting  in 
tlie  English  translation  ;  but  the  sections  are  the  same.  For  the 
use  of  the  marginal  figures,  see  the  Index. 


2 


CHAPTER  II. 
DOCTRINE  AND  MINISTRY  OF  THE  WORD. 

§  11,  3.    Conformity  to  the  Doctrinal  Standards. 

1  In  the  Brethren's  Unity,  it  is  not  permitted  to  urge  the 
doctrine  of  "the  fiual  salvation  of  all  men,"  or  the  doctrine 
of  "the  annihilation  of  the  wicked."  (In  der  Brueder- 
Unitaet  darf  weder  die  Lehre  von  der  endlichen  Seligkeit 
AUer,  noch  die  von  der  Vernichtung  der  Boesea  getrieben 
werden.)  This  declaration  means  that  a  member  of  the 
Brethren's  Church  is  not  justified  in  seeking  to  win  over 
other  souls  to  a  belief  in  these  doctrines,  neither  of  which, 
to  say  the  least,  is  clearly  taught  by  the  Scriptures,  and 
the  last  of  which  is  directly  opposed  by  the  statements  of 
our  doctrinal  standards.  (Synodal  Results,  1869  and  1879, 
p.  162. ) 

§  11,  4.    Qualifications  for  the  Ministry. 

2  That  no  person  shall  be  employed  as  a  missionary  or  min- 
ister in  any  of  our  churches  unless  the  Provincial  Elders' 
Conference  shall  be  fully  satisfied  with  his  qualifications  for 
such  office,  including  an  acquaiatance  with  the  doctrines, 
principles  and  discipline  of  the  Brethren's  Church,  and 
unless  he  shall  have  been  a  member  of  the  same,  either  in 
this  country  or  elsewhere,  for  at  least  one  year  next  preced- 
ing his  appointment,  always  provided  that  the  restriction 
as  to  time  and  membership  shall  not  apply  to  regularly  or- 
dained ministers  and  licentiates  presenting  the  proper  cre- 
dentials.   (Journal,  1868,  pp.  89,  90,  99.) 

§  11,  4.    Licensing  of  Candidates. 

3  That  before  regular  candidates  for  the  ministry,  or  other 
brethren  who  desire  to  preach,  statedly  engage  in  the  pub- 
lic ministration  of  the  Gospel,  they  be  licensed  by  the  Pro- 
vincial Elders'  Conference,  after  having  been  duly  exam- 
ined by  said  Conference.    (Journal,  1867,  p.  65.) 

§  12.    Family  Worship  and  the  Instruction  of  Youth. 

4  I.  That  we,  as  a  Church,  do  solemnly  recognize  the  Chris- 
tian training  of  the  young  as  one  of  the  greatest  instrumen- 
talities for  the  conversion  of  the  world ;  that  parents  are 
hereby  urged  to  co-operate  with  the  Church  in  the  religious 
education  of  their  children  ;  that  we  give  to  the  Sabbath- 
school  our  prayers  and  united  labors,  and  that  we,  through 


3 


tliorough  iustructiou  of  the  children  in  the  facts  and  doc- 
I  l  ines  of  the  Holy  Scriptures,  strive  to  lead  them,  in  their 
early  years,  to  Jesus,  to  a  living  experience  of  His  pardon- 
ing grace  and  to  a  sincere  devotion  of  their  lives  to  His 
service. 

II.  Tliat  the  Synod  declares  it  to  be  the  duty  of  all  parents  1 
belonging  to  our  congregations  to  encourage  the  regular  and 
stated  attendance  of  children  upon  the  services  of  our 
Church,  and  to  strive  to  ensure  their  early  connection  in 
membership  therewith  ;  and  that  this  Synod  enjoins  upon 
all  our  ministers  the  propriety  of  frequently  i)resenting  to 
parents  and  members  the  subject  of  the  duties  they  owe  to 
their  children.    (Journal.  18G7,  pp.  79,  80.  88.  89.) 

12,  3.    The  Text  Book. 

That  the  special  attention  of  the  pastors  and  elders  of  2 
our  Church  be  directed  to  the  importance  of  introducing 
the  Text  Book  of  the  Church  into  every  familv.  (Journal, 
1878,  p.  143. ) 

§  12,  4.    Religious  Instnictioii. 

That  this  Synod  charges  our  pastors  to  devote  their  faith-  3 
ful  attention  to  the  regular  imparting  of  religious  instruc 
tion  to  the  children  and  youth  of  their  eongiegat ions,  not 
only  in  the  Suudaj^-school,  but  also  in  ehildreirs  meetings, 
and  in  special  hours  of  religious  instruction  in  the  cate- 
chism of  our  Church.    (  Journal.  1864,  pp.  58,  59. ) 


CHAPTER  III. 
THE  LITURGY.     (RITUAL  AND  WORSHIP,  i 

§  13,  1.     ZJniformity  Desirable. 

I.  That  as  the  Ritual  of  the  Church  is  the  exj^ression  of  4 
its  inner  collective  life  (vide  Synodal  Results  of  1857,  §  14) 
[1879,  $  13],  the  Synod  recommends  to  the  i)astois  of  our 
churches  to  maintain  or  reintroduce  a  greater  uniformity  in 
the  use  of  our  Ritual,  in  as  much  as  the  agreement  in  the 
substance  of  our  Ritual  constitutes  one  of  the  sti'ongest 
bonds  of  union.    (Journal,  1864,  pp.  58,  59.  ) 

II.  That  this  Synod  urges  anew  upon  our  ministers  and  5 
congregations  more  efforts  at  uniformity  of  Ritual.  (Jour- 
nal, 1888.  p.  114.  ) 


4 


Sjl3,  2,  and  §14,  2.    Diversify  of  Modes. 

1  I.  That  it  is  advantageous  to  pastors  and  people,  if  they 
unite  occasioually  to  hold  convocations  in  their  respective 
congreg-ations,  with  the  view  to  counsel  and  encourage  each 
other,  and  nlso  to  combine  their  strength  in  the  carrying  on 
of  tlie  work  of  the  Lord  ;  but  that  Synod  inipi-esses  upon 
the  attention  of  niinistei'S  so  assembling,  that  in  their  ex- 
hortalions  and  sermons,  whilst  these  are  directed  to  the 
all  important  matter  of  awakening  reflection  in  the  hearts 
of  sinners  and  building  up  believers  in  their  faith,  they 
shall  faithfully  hold  forth  and  maintain  the  established 
principles  and  lules  of  the  Moravian  Church.  (Journal, 
18(i4,  pp.  Ol,  G2.) 

2  II.  That  this  Synod  recommends  to  the  ministers  of  our 
congregations  to  hold  prayer  and  other  meetings,  wherever 
there  are  indications  that  good  luay  be  effcctiMl  thereby, 
with  a  view  of  i-eviving  and  confirming  beli»'\crs,  and  of 
awakening  and  converting  sinners. 

3  III.  Tiiat  Synod  imiM  esses  upon  the  attention  of  all  min- 
isters holding  such  meetings,  that  they  shall  be  conducted 
in  accordance  with  the  established  principles  and  rules  of 
the  Moravian  Church.    (Journal,  1870,  pp.  66,  67. 

§  16,  1-5.    Observance  of  the  Lord's  Day. 

4  I.  That  ministers  and  superintendents  of  Sunday-.schools, 
parents  and  teach(!rs,  be  requested  to  impress  upon  the 
minds  oi  those  in  their  charge,  both  old  and  young,  the 
duty  and  importance  of  keeping  holy  the  Sabbath  day,  and 
of  opposing  all  the  influences  which  are  brought  to  bear 
against  this  holy  institution.    (Journal,  1870,  pp.  66,  67.) 

5  II.  We  solemnly  charge  all  the  members  of  our  Church 
to  abstain  from  uiuieccssary  ti  avel,  as  well  as  fi  om  frequent- 
ing public  houses  OH  llie  Sabbat ii,  such  conduct  being"  not 
oidy  unchristian,  but  also  disreputable  in  the  eyes  of  re- 
spectable pei'sons.  Fnither,  we  exhoi  t  them  to  avoid  the 
very  api)earance  of  an  habitual  neglect  of  Ihe  public  ser- 
vices ol'  till'  s.i.nci  nary  on  (hat  day,  and  to  be  careful  that 
the  rei'irations  indiilgcil  in  on  liie  sajue  be  innocent,  and 
interteie  neither  with  their  own  attendance  nor  with  that 
of  others  on  divine  worship.    (Journal,  1855,  p.  130,  §  15.) 

§  16,  6.    Use  of  the  Litany. 

6  I.  All  our  congregations  are  hereby  instructed  to  use  our 
most  excellent  and  impressive  Church-litany,  statedly  en- 
gaging therein  with  due  reverence  and  unction.  (Journal, 
1855,  p.  131,  §  18,  3. ) 


5 


II.  That  this  Synod  iustruct  the  uiiuisters  of  our  various  1 
congregations,  on  no  account  to  suffer  any  other  litany  to  be 
prayed  in  their  respective  churches,  except  their  own. 
(Journal,  1855,  p.  140.) 

III.  That  when  the  litany  is  used,  it  be  prayed  in  con-  - 
nection  with  the  sermon.    (Journal,  1855,  p.  340. ) 

IV.  That  the  Synod  enjoins  upon  the  congregations  of  3 
the  Province  to  respond  more  heartily  to  the  petitions  of 
the  Church-litany.    (Journal,  1S64,  pp.  72,  82.  i 

V.  That  our  Bishops  be  requested  to  compile  short  Eng-  4 
lish  and  German  litanies  for  use  at  the  Sunday  evening  ser- 
vice,   (Journal,  1888,  pp.  78,  115.) 

^  17,  2.    Services  of  the  Passion  Week. 

That  Synod  recommends  to  all  our  ministers  and  congre-  o 
gations  to  observe  the  reading  of  the  ''Last  Acts  of  the  Son 
of  Man"  during  the  Passion  Week.    (Journal,  1864,  pp. 
.58,  59.  1 

^  18.    Use  of  the  Surplice. 

I.  In  order  to  avoid  the  appearance  of  esteeming  Holy  6 
Baptism  as  less  fully  a  sacrament  than  is  the  Lord's  Sup- 
per, it  was  resolved,  that  wherever  it  can  be  done  without 
offense,  the  minister  shall  wear  the  surplice  at  the  adminis- 
tration of  Baptism  as  well  as  at  the  administration  of  the 
Lord's  Supper.    (Synodal  Results,  1848,  §  24.) 

II.  That  this  Syjiod  recommends  a  more  general  nse  of  7 
the  surplice  on  saci'amental  occasions.    (Journal,  1807,  p. 
103.) 

§  19,  1  and  2.    Infant  Baptism. 

I.  That  we  enjoin  upon  all  our  ministers  to  observe  the  8 
order  established  by  tlae  General  Synod,  that  baptisms  shall 
ordinarily  be  performed  in  a  public  meeting  of  the  congre- 
gation, and  when  members  of  the  Church  refuse  to  have 
their  children  baptized,  it  be  represented  to  them  that  such 
refusal  is  in  violation  of  an  exjjress  rule  of  the  Church,  and 

is  virtually  a  withdrawal  from  the  Church.  (Journal,  1804, 
p.  59.  I 

II.  That  especial  attention  be  called  to  the  rule  laid  down  O 
in  Provincial  Digest,  in  reference  to  the  administration  of 
the  rite  of  Infant  Baptism.    (Journal,  1888,  pp.  78,  115. 

§  20,  1.    Immersion  of  Adults— the  exception. 

I.  In  administering  the  rite  of  Baptism  the  mode  hereto- 10 
fore  in  use  amongst  us,  that  of  affusion,  shall  continue  to 


6 


be  the  rule.  In  special  cases  only,  and  by  way  of  ex- 
ception, immersion  shall  be  allowed,  provided,  that  there 
is  not  coiiihiiiod  with  a  desire  for  this  mode  of  baptism  a 
rejection  of  iiiraiii  l>a])tisni.  i  Synodal  Results,  1869,  Ap- 
pendix 2.  p.  o  :  l.S7i»,  }).   1()2.  1 

1  II.  That  each  case  of  immersion  falling  undei-  the  rule  of 
the  Church,  as  laid  down  by  the  General  Synod  of  1869 
(see  Appendix  C,  Results  of  General  Synod,  !^  2),  be  first 
reported  to  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  for  their 
sanction,  before  the  rite  is  administered.  (Journal,  1870, 
p.  86. ) 

20.    Status  of  thoac  Confirmed  or  Baptized. 

2  That  in  general  the  rule  shall  obtain  in  all  our  churches, 
that  all  who  are  confirmed  or  received  by  baptism  as  adults, 
are  thereby  received  as  full  communicant  members  into  the 
Moravian  Church.    (Journal,  1861,  p.  44.  i 

§  21,  1.    The  Right  Hand  of  Fellowship. 

.*?  That  it  be  recommended  by  this  Synod  to  all  our  congre- 
gations, to  observe  the  significant  custom  of  giving  the  right 
hand  of  jrllowsiiip  at  the  commencement  and  close  of  the 
celebration  of  the  Lord's  Suppei-.    (Journal,  1867,  p.  103.) 

i?21,  2.    Commmiion  Seasons. 

4  That  the  Holy  Communion  be  administered  more  fre- 
quently, and,  if  desired,  monthly.  (Journal.  1861.  pp.  52, 
67.) 

^21,  4.    Abstaining  from  the  Lord^s  Supper. 

5  That  Synod  lays  it  down  as  a  rnle  of  discipline  for  all 
our  congi cual i<Mis.  tlial  if  any  nicnibei- of  (he  Church  will- 
fully and  pt'rsislcnlly  abstains  from  participating  in  the 
Lord's  Supper,  (»)■  attending  u]>on  divine  service,  he  be 
excluded  from  chuich  fellowshi]).    (Journal,  1864,  p.  82.) 

!j  21,  7.    Thanksgiving  Service. 

i^  I.  To  recommend  to  all  the  ministers  and  churches  of  our 
Province  ti>  cai  TV  out  the  ])i  ()\  isions  contained  in  §21,  of 
the  K'esuUs  of  tlie  (ieneial  Synod  of  l.S.-)7  i  r/Jr  p.  21 )  [1879, 
§  211.  Mith  special  reference  lo  the  introdnction  of  the 
thanksgiving  service  after  the  celebration  of  the  Holy  Com- 
munion, wh(;re  they  have  not  taken  place  hitherto.  (Jour- 
nal, 1861,  pp.  54,  65.) 


II.  That  this  Synod  reiterates  the  recommendation  with  1 
regard  to  tlie  thanksgiving:  services  after  the  celebration  of 
the  Holy  Communion,  and  urges  ui)on  pastors  and  congre- 
gations their  faithful  observance.    (Journal,  1864,  pp.  74, 
77. ) 

!^  21,  7.    Preparation  for  the  Lord's  Svpper. 

It  is  recommended  to  our  ministers  whenever  they  an-  2 
nounce  the  celebration  of  the  Lord's  Supper,  to  invite  all 
such  as  feel  desirous  of  conversing  with  them,  to  call  on 
them  at  a  certain  designated  time  and  place.  (Journal, 
1855,  p.  131,  §  18,  and  p.  141. ) 

§  24,  1.    Memorial  Bays  and  the  History  of  our  Church. 

That  our  ministers  be  recniestcd  to  instruct  their  respec-  3 
tive  congregations  more  thorou.uhly  in  tlie  history  of  the 
Church,  and  to  train  them,  if  possible,  to  a  regular  observ- 
ance of  the  special  memorial-days  of  the  Church.  (Journal, 
1876,  pp.  87,  88.) 

§  25,  2-4.    Prayer  Meetings. 

I.  That  for  the  increase  of  the  body  and  the  edifying  of  4 
itself  in  love,  and  for  the  effectual  working  together  in  the 
measure  of  every  part,  the  diversified  gifts  of  individuals 
should  be  combined  and  called  into  lively  exercise.  To  this 
end  the  original  '■'hand-meetings,''''  composed  of  subdivisions 
of  the  congregations,  be  revived,  whei-ever  practicable,  in 
which  each  member  present  be  requested  to  give  an 
account  of  his  or  her  religious  experiences  or  feelings  ; 
and  that  on  these  occasions  brethren  and  sisters  meet  apart. 
(Journal.  1861,  pp.  52,  66.) 

II.  We  recommend  that  prayer-meetings  be  held  as  fre-  5 
quently  as  the  necessities  and  desires  of  the  congregations 
may  demand.    (Journal,  1858,  pp.  75,  76.) 

III.  That  this  Synod  anew  recommends  the  regular  hold-  6 
ing  of  social  or  cottage  prayer-meetings  in  all  our  congre- 
gations, as  a  means  for  growth  in  grace.    (Journal,  1878, 
pp.  142,  143. ) 

lY.  That  this  Synod  re  affirms  its  conviction  that  social  7 
prayer-meetings,  properly  conducted,  are  a  most  impoi  tant 
means  of  grace,  and  that  it  urges  our  pastors  to  endeavor 
to  maintain  or  establish  them  in  all  of  our  congregations, 
(Journal,  1881,  pp.  105,  106.) 


8 


§  25.  5.     Unceming  Pi-ayer. 

1  That  pastors  and  cong:regations  unite  in  ferveHt  petitions 
for  the  outpouring  of  the  spirit  of  prayer  upon  our  whole 
Ohun  h.  that  in  public  and  in  private,  in  the  family,  in  the 
social  circh\  and  in  the  cliiirch,  the  name  of  our  God  and 
Saviour  may  be  glorified  through  the  unceasing  sup])lic^- 
tion  of  His  people,    i  Journal,  1867.  pp.  78.  88.) 

4.  Love-feasts. 

2  1.  We  recommend  love-feasts  on  festive  occasions,  and 
deem  them  vvvy  suitable  in  cuunection  with  the  celebration 
of  the  Loi'd's  Siipjx'i  .      Jourual.  l.s.58,  pp.  75,  76.) 

ii  11.  Oui- love  leasts  (lUi^liI  pnqx'i  ly  to  be  I'egarded  as  pri- 
vate meetings  iiK'icl\.  (Ifsigiicd  iiiily  lor  lutMubers  of  the 
(Church.  It  is  lu>\vc\ cr  Irlt  to  the  Boards  ol  1'jldei'S  of  our 
respective  chuiciifs  to  determine  what  lestrictions  with  re- 
gard to  the  aduiissiou  of  strangers  to  such  meetings  shall 
be  made  in  everv  iustauce.  (Jomnal.  18.55.  pp.  VM,  132. 
§21.) 

S  26,  7.    Sunday -.school  Hymn-hook. 

4  That  the  iut  i  oduction  and  general  use  of  the  collection  of 
Sal)batli  school  hymns,  be  lecommended  to  our  congrega- 
ticms.    '.lournal.  1867,  p.  103.) 

27.  1.    The  Minister  and  the  Church  Music. 

n  Oui'  uiiuistcis.  being  c.r  officio  directors  of  our  church- 
music  arc  1htc1i\  i iisI  i  ucI ed  to  retain,  as  far  as  possible, 
our  ow  ti  pi'cidiar  sacred  music,  and,  wherever  practicable, 
to  take  measures  to  have  our  school  children  taught  to 
sing  our  own  tunes.    (  Journal,  1855,  p.  132.  §  22,  d.  \ 


CHAPTER  IV. 
THE  GOVERNMENT  OF  OUR  SAVIOUR. 

§  29.    September  \iMh  and  November  VSth. 

6  That  the  celebration  of  the  memorial -day  of  November 
I3th  be  recommended,  in  commemoration  not  only  of  the 
powerful  expei-ience  made  on  the  16th  of  September,  1741, 
that  our  Saviour,  being  the  Chief  Shepherd  and  Head  of 
the  Church  Universal,  is  as  such  the  Chief  Shepherd  and 
Head  of  the  Unity  of  the  Brethr  en,  but  also  of  the  hearty 
confession  of  this  truth  by  the  congregation  on  November 
13th  in  the  same  year,  when  they  tendered  their  allegiance 


9 


to  Him  as  their  Lord  and  Master  ;  at  the  same  time  we  dis- 
claim the  idea  of  our  Saviour  being  considered  to  hold  any 
ecclesiastical  office  in  the  Brethren's  Church.  (Journal. 
1856,  pp.  81.  82.  I 


CHAPTER  V. 
THE  USE  OF  THE  LOT. 

A  Hearty  Endorsement. 

I.  That  this  Synod  fully  acquiesces  in  all  the  views  on  1 
the  Use  of  the  Lot  contained  in  Chapter  V..  Synodal  Re- 
sults of  18(>9  [and  1870].  •  ' 

II.  Tliat  we  recommend  a  carefvil  i)erusal  of  said  Chaptei'  2 
to  all  the  Eretlircn  wIkuii  it  may  ctiicei-n,  to  the  end  that. 

if  it  so  please  God,  every  believing  son  and  servant  of  the 
Lord  may  attain  to  the  same  measure  of  faith  once  accorded 
to  our  fathers.    (Journal,  1878.  pp.  135,  136. ) 

!}  34,  5.    Special  Rules  far  the  Province. 

I.  That  when  the  members  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Con-  3 
ference,  whilst  deliberating  on  an  ai)i)<)intment,  are/?/??yyand 
unanimously  convinced  thar  lliey  desiie,  in  sincere  failli,  for 
themselves,  the  direction  of  the  Lard  tluougli  the  Li)t,  then 
they  may  ask  the  ([ueslion  by  the  Lot  :  Imt  snch  use  of  the 
Lot  shall  be  binding  on  the  Provincial  Elders"  Cimference 
only,  and  not  on  the  person  to  whom  the  appointment  is 
offered. 

II.  That  wlien  a  brother  or  sister  receives  a  call  from  the  4 
Provincial  Elders'  Conference,  and  \\-i\\\\vrs -.v  Hp(-eM  Lot  for 
his  or  her  direction,  he  or  she  max  ask  the  Provincial 
Elders'  Conference,  in  writing,  to  ha\-e  a  special  Lot  cast 
for  himself  or  herself^  and  the  (lin  ctitnis  given  by  the  Lot 
shall  be  absolutely  binding  upon  that  biothei  or  sister. 

III.  That  when  a  brother  or  sisiei  is  (1(  si  ions  of  having,  5 
in  his  or  her  private  atfairs,  a  decision  iiy  Lot.  the  use  of 
the  Lot  shall  be  allowed.  ])i'ovide(l  the  Piovincial  Elders' 
Conference  beconu's  satisfied  that  the  applicant  for  its  use 

is  possessed  of  implicit  faith  and  contideuce.  and  will  yield 
perfect  obedience  to  and  cheerful  acquiescence  in  the  Lord's 
will  thus  ascertained  ;  and  provided  further,  that  the  mat- 
ter concerning  which  the  Lot  is  requested  be  of  such  a 
nature  as  to  render  its  use  proper  in  the  estimation  of  the 
Provincial  Elders'  Conference.  (Journal.  1856.  pp.  80,  82,) 


10 


CHAPTER  VI. 
CONGEEGATIONS  AND  THEIR  ORGANIZATION. 

§  35,  1.  Membership. 

1  That  pastors  be  requested  to  construe  the  instructions  of 
General  Synod  on  the  subject  of  church  membership  in 
such  a  manner  as  to  secure,  as  far  as  possible,  a  membership 
that  has  met  with  a  change  of  heart.  (Journal,  1876,  pp. 
7G,  77.) 

Lay  Activity. 

2  1.  That  we  consider  it  a  cheering  and  blessed  token  for 
good,  that  in  a  ntimber  of  our  congregations  lay  brethren 

'have  come  forward  as  efficient  helps  to  the  labors  of  their 
pastors,  l)()tli  in  private  and  in  inililic  social  prayer-meet- 
ings ;  and,  wliilsl  Ave  utterly  cojidenui  an  uiu-haritable  dis- 
position to  judge  our  biethren  who  do  not  and  cannot  pub- 
licly eoiiie  lorward  and  speak  of  the  state  of  their  hearts, 
we  earnestly  uige  u])on  all  the  Apostle's  command,  at  all 
pi'o[)(M'  times  "to  be  ready  to  give  a  reason  of  the  hope  that 
is  within  tlieiu,"  and  boldly  to  stand  up  for  Jesus.  (Jour- 
nal, lcS61,  pp.  r)l2,  {)7.) 

3  II.  That  it  is  highly  important  to  the  members  of  our 
Church  that  the  young  men  of  our  congregations  be  early 
interested,  as  far  as  practicable,  in  the  lay- work  of  the  con- 
gregations.   (Journal,  1867,  pp.  80,  89.) 

§  36.    Pastoral  Visits. 

4  I.  Our  ministers  will  exert  themselves  to  pay  pastoral 
visits  to  the  membeis  of  their  chaige  as  frequently  as  pos- 
sible, and  will  on  such  occasions  endeavor  to  deepen  the 
impression  that  it  allords  them  pleasure  to  see  their  mem- 
bers at  the  parsoii;ii;c.  and  Unit  they  are  ready  at  all  times, 
in  private  con\ ersatioiis,  faithfully  to  deal  with  individual 
souls.     ( Ifesolutious  oC  IS;"),").  ]>.  11.) 

^  II.  We  recommend  pi  ivate  religions  conversation  by  the 
pastor  with  individual  members,  whenever  occasion  offers, 
and  also  at  stated  times.  (Journal,  1858,  pji.  75,  76  ;  1873. 
p.  71.) 

a  III.  Synod  liaviug  learned  with  pleasure,  from  the  state- 
ments made,  t  iiat.  wlien  a  pastor  in  his  visits  to  the  fami- 
lies of  his  charge,  ha\  ing  their  spiritual  welfare  at  heart, 
finds  circumstances  not  unfavorable  or  forbidding  for  gath- 
ering the  household  together  for  prayer,  the  blessing  of  the 
Lord  will  follow,  therefore  recommends  pastoral  visits  of 
this  nature.    (Journal,  1858,  pp.  75,  76. ) 


11 


Earnest  Preachhu/  Recommended. 

That  pastors  ever  striA'e  more  aud  more,  through  grace  1 
to  make  the  ])roafh('(l  M'ord  a  word  of  urgency,  of  empha- 
sis, and  of  power,  that  the  signs  accompanying  the  procla- 
mation of  the  Gospel  may  gladden  their  ministry  in  the 
conversion  of  sinners  and  in  the  establishment  of  forgiven 
souls  in  their  most  holy  faith.    (Journal,  1867,  pp.  79,  88.) 

Pastoral  Visits  not  to  be  left  to  the  Pastor  alone. 

That  the  pastors  and  elders,  and  other  s])iritually-minded  2 
members  of  our  congregations,  give  cai  ncsi  heed  to  the  duty 
of  pastoral  visitation,  exhorting  the  sinner,  comforting  the 
sick,  and,  after  the  apostolical  example,  preaching  the' 
Gospel  trom  house  to  house.    'Journal.  1867.  pp.  80,  88.) 

All  should  be  interested. 

That  all  the  communicant  members  of  our  congregations  3 
be  requested  to  meet  at  least  once  annually  for  the  purpose 
of  considering  the  spiritual  inteiests  of  the  congregation 
and  community,  and  of  seeking  renewed  interest  in  the 
Lord's  work.    (Journal,  1873,  p.  71. ) 

Non-resident  Members. 

Brethren  and  sistei-s  residing  at  a  distance  from  a  congre-  4- 
gation  are  expected  to  keei>  up  their  connection  with  it  by 
friendly  correspondence  with  their  ministers.  (Synodal 
Results,  1848,  §  .-)1.  ) 

Faithf  ulness  Enjoined. 

I.  That  amid  the  peculiar  temptations  to  forget  God,  of  5 
the  progressive  age  in  which  we  are  living.  *  *  *  *  this 
Synod  urges  its  churches  to  be  watchful  and  prayerful,  and 

to  follow  closely  in  the  footsteps  of  Jesus  ;  and  more  es- 
pecially enjoins  upon  the  ministers  of  the  Church  to  copy, 
in  their  preaching  and  practice,  the  simplicity,  godly  sin- 
cerity and  devotion  of  the  fathers  of  the  Moravian  Church, 
remembering  that  '"the  time  is  short,'*  and  that  they 
"watch  for  souls"  as  they  that  must  soon  ••give  an  account 
of  their  stewardship."    fjourual.  1876.  pp.  87.  88. ) 

II.  That  this  Synod  urgently  requests  all  their  pastors  to  6 
regulate  their  labors  in  such  a  manner  that  tliey  may  be  en- 
abled, at  all  times,  to  give  favoiable  replies  on  the  various 
points  bearing  upon  the  spiritual  state  of  their  charges. 
(Journal,  1878.  pp.  142,  143,) 


12 


Removal  of  Members. 

1  1.  All  brethren  and  sisters  removing  from  one  congrega- 
tion to  another,  aic  In  be  |)riivi(l('d  with  teKstimonials  by 
their  i-es])(_'c-ti\f  ])ast(irs.      S^  iindai  iJesnits,  1848,  §51.) 

2  II.  Tliat  ill  tilt"  case  of  l)i'ctiiicii  and  sisters  removing  to 
plaees  wlicrc  cnn^rcLjal  ions  ot  our  Church  are  in  existence, 
pastors  uolity  the  jjastors  in  chai.iie  of  such  congregations, 
and  furnish  ilieni  with  the  addresses  of  such  brethren  and 
sisters.    (Journal,  1S84,  pj).  2.'>,  ."iS,  oO.) 

3  III.  That  this  Synod  urges  upon  all  niendiei's  of  our 
Morax  iau  Church  I  hat  when  they  rcnioxc  thci)'  residence 
to  cities,  towns,  \  illages  and  country  neigiiborhoods  where 
theic  are  Moravian  congregations,  they  take  with  tliem 
letteis  ot  dismissal  to  said  congregations.     (Journal,  1884, 

pp.  .">.S,  .")!».  ) 

36,  3.  Contributiom. 

4  It  is  the  duty  of  every  adult  member  of  the  congregation 
to  contribute  according  to  his  ability  towards  the  wants  of 
his  particular  congregation.    (Synodal  Results,  1818. ) 

Parson(if/('fi  should  hr  fiiniixhed. 

5  That  the  attention  ot  Hie  eonui-eyat  ions  is  hereby  called 
to  the  advisability  of  fuinishing  at  least  a  majority  of  the 
rooms  in  their  parsoiuige.    (Joui  nal,  1870,  p.  74.) 

ProiKr  FinancUil  Support. 

G  I.  That  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Con- 
fcieuc<>,  in  a  coniinunication  addressed  to  the  parties,  or 
execiitiA-e  l»oard  (d'  the  parties  applying  for  a  minister,  and 
to  such  eoiiL^ie^ations  wiiose  case  re(|uires  it,  officially  to 
aimonnee  lo  tlieiii  that  Hie  niinistei'  wiio  is  to  servesaid  con- 
gregation sjiall  lia\"e  a  snllicienl  and  decent  snpjiort ;  that, 
being  the  servant  of  the  Chnrcii,  sent  by  its  autlioi'ity,  the 
Executive  Boaid  who  sends  him  should  be  assured  in  ad- 
vance that  he  will  be  thus  supported.  (Journal,  1873,  pp. 
80,  81.  ). 

7  H.  Thai  Hie  iM  o\  incial  Elders' Conference  make  earnest 
re])i-eseiilations  on  Hie  subjeetto  the  Board  of  Elders  and 
Trustees  of  every  congi'egation  whose  pastor  has  stated 
that  his  salary  is  insnflicient,  and  ask  them  to  adopt  such 
measures  as  in  their  judgment  will  be  calculated  to  remedy 
this  evil,  and  that  tlie  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  report 
to  the  next  Synod  tlie  names  of  such  congregations  as  fail 
to  come  up  to  their  ability  and  responsibility.  (^ Journal, 
1884,  pp.  77,  78.) 


13 


Systematic  Beneficence  and  Envelope  System. 

That  this  Syuod  recommends  to  all  our  congregations  to  1 
adopt  the  Scriptural  plan  of  contributing  to  the  support  of 
the  minister  and  to  beneficent  causes,  namely — ''to  lay  by 
them  in  store  on  the  first  day  of  tlie  week  as  the  Lord  has 
prospered  them;""  and  to  give  effect  to  this  plan  they  fur- 
ther recommend  to  those  congregations  which  have  not 
adopted  some  other  fixed  and  satisfactory  method,  the  in- 
troduction of  the  "envelope  system,'"  or  some  similar  mode 
of  paving  contributions  to  the  support  of  the  Gospel. 
(Journal,  1878,  pp.  80,  81. ) 

All  Church  Property  is  Trust  Property. 

I.  In  ca.se  of  secession  from  the  Unity,  a  congregation  2 
loses  all  right  to  the  property  of  which  it  has  had  the  man- 
agement.   ( Journal,  1847.  ij  58. ) 

II.  The  claim  of  a  congregation  upon  the  estate  held  in  3 
its  name  shall  be  null  and  void,  as  soon  as  said  congregation 
expresslv  or  virtually  throws  off'  its  connection  with  the 
Brethren's  Unity.    (Journal,  18-19,  p.  2:),  II. ; 

III.  The  individual  members  of  a  congregation  are  not  4- 
in  any  way  entitled  to  a  claim  upon  the  property,  nor 
subject  to  a  liabilitj^  for  its  debts.    (Journal,  1849.  p.  25. 
III.) 

IV.  No  city  or  country  congregation  shall  have  antliority  o 
to  make  any  change  in  the  title-deeds  of  its  real  estate 
without  permission  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference. 
(Eesolutions,  1855,  p.  21,  I., 

V.  That  the  Provincial  Eltlers'  Conference  be  instructed,  6 
as  far  as  i)racticable,  to  requii  e  that  all  titles  to  Church 
properties  hereafter  acquired  by  (  oiigi  egations  in  this  Pro- 
vince, be  vested  in  their  corpoiatinn.  in  trust  for  each  re- 
spective congregation,  to  become  ahsolnte  in  case  of  the 
cessation  of  a  Moravian  organization  worshiping  in  said 
churcli  :  and  that  tliey  shall,  as  far  as  possible,  take  mort- 
gages from  those  now  in  operation,  for  the  amnmit  of  con- 
tributions raised  in  the  Province  to  assist  in  tlu  ir  erection 
— provided  that  no  interest  shall  be  charged  upon  said 
mortgages,  and  that  the  enforcement  of  the  same  be  left  to 
the  discretion  of  the  Provincial  Elders"  Conference.  ( Jour- 
nal, 1864,  p.  64.) 

VI.  That  the  Provincial  Elders' Conference  be  instructed,  7 
in  every  case  in  which  as  a  corporation  it  holds  the  titles  to 
Church  properties,  to  require  new  deeds  to  be  drawn,  which 


14 


in  strict  accordance  with  the  original  enactment  of  the 
Synod  of  1864  (Journal,  Appendix  E,  15),  shall,  first,  make 
over  such  titles  in  trust  :  si'cond.  contain  a  provision,  that 
if  a  congretjal ion  worsliipiiiji  in  such  a  church  ceases  to 
exist,  or  ceases  to  l»c  a  Moravian  conoiv.ii'at ion.  the  title 
shall  bfconie  al>solutc  :  and.  tiiird.  set  foi  tii  a  stipulation 
to  the  etrccl  that  the  Provincial  Kldcrs"  ( 'onnMciu-c  is  in  no 
wise  to  he  liclil  r('s))onsilil('  lor  liic  i»a\Mnent  of  any  debts 
restinu  on  the  pi-oi)erty,  or  foi  an^  iiiqirovenients thereafter 
to  be  made.    ( .Inurnai,  1S,S1,  j)!).  o4.  (>.").) 

1  VII.  That  hereatter  no  Home  Mission  church  shall  re- 
ceive any  aid  whatsoever  from  the  Home  Mission  Fund, 
unless  the  title  of  saiil  chuich  property  be  vested  in  the 
Provincial  Elders'  Conference.    (Journal,  1876,  p.  98.) 

Annual  ReporU  of  the  Treasurers. 

2  That,  in  the  opinion  of  this  Synod,  the  several  congrega- 
tions of  this  Province  should  i-equire  and  insist  upon  hav- 
ing from  their  respective  treasurers  an  annual  statement  of 
their  finances.    (Journal,  1864,  p.  64.) 

Church  Collections. 

3  That  Synod  recommends  the  introduction  of  collections 
in  morning  and  evening  Sunday  services,  and  after  each 
Holy  Communion,  in  our  churches.  (Journal,  1867.  p. 
104.) 

ij  37,  4.    Admission  of  Congregations. 

4  That  no  congregation  before  it  is  self-supporting  shall  be 
entitled  to  lav  representation  at  Provincial  Synods.  (Jour- 
nal, 1876.  p.  64.) 

5;  37,  7.    Reception  of  Members. 

o  That  this  general  rule  shall  obtain,  that  the  reception  of 
membei's  into  our  Church  shall  take  place  in  a  public  ser- 
vice, after  they  have  undeigone  a  careful  probation  and 
have  received  a  prei)aratory  couise  of  instruction  in  the 
history,  principles  and  discipline  of  our  Church,  by  the 
minister  or  home  missionai y,  all  exceptional  cases  to  be 
decided  by  the  Piovincial  Elders'  Conference.  (Journal, 
1861,  p.  44.) 

38.    The  Choir  or  Class  Si/stem. 

6  That  the  pastors  and  elders  of  our  churches  be  hereby 
earnestly  requested  to  divide  their  congregations  into 
classes  or  districts,  as  soon  as  possible,  and  to  appoint  a 


15 


suitable  superintendent  over  each  division,  whose  duty  it 
-hall  be  to  aid  the  pastor  in  his  work  in  that  part  of  the 
congregation.  Each  of  these  classes  or  divisions  shall 
meet  at  least  twice  in  a  year,  under  the  leadership  of  the 
pastor,  or  such  other  nieiiibcr  as  the  ]iastor  or  elders  may 
appoint,  and  (!ondnct  their  luci  l  iii^s  in  such  a  manner  as 
may  seem  most  advisal)l(s  until  a  uniform  plan  be  adopted 
bv  the  Provincial  Synod  or  District  Synod.  (Journal,  1873, 
pp.  70,  71.) 

§  38.    Class  System — Additional  Rules. 

I.  That  the  pastors  and  elders  of  congregations  divide  1 
their  congregations,  as  soon  as  may  be  practicable,  into 
classes,  the  distinctive  idea  of  which  shall  be  fellowship  in 
the  Christian  experience  and  in  the  work  for  souls. 

II.  That  in  forming  these  classes,  pastors  and  elders  be  2 
guided  by  the  circumstances  and  the  needs  of  their  several 
congregations,  dividing  the  nieniliershij)  according  to  their 
respective  localities,  di-  according  to  the  duties  I'equired  of 
them,  or  according  to  the  ••  choir"  system  still  prevailing 
in  some  of  our  older  congregations,  or  in  such  other  ways 
as  they  may  deem  most  advisable  to  secure  the  ends  in 
view. 

III.  That  while  pastors  and  elders  thus  use  liberty,  they  3 
also  strive  by  consultation,  especially  at  District  Synods,  to 
secure  as  much  uniformity  as  is  possible  among  the  several 
congregations. 

IV.  That,  as  soon  as  practicable,  a  member  of  the  con-  4 
gregatiou  be  selected  h\  ])astoi-  a  nd  elders  to  act  in  conjunc- 
tion with  them,  as  su])ei  inlentlent  of  each  class,  and  that 
great  stress  be  laid  on  the  prayer  and  personal  labors  of 
those  who  constitute  these  classes.    (Journal,  187G,  p.  69.) 

V.  That  it  be  recommendeil  that  where  the  class  or  choir  5 
system  is  no  longer  observed,  or  has  never  been  introduced, 
the  members  of  each  class  or  choir  be  brought  together  at 
least  once  a  year  in  a  meeting  for  mutual  edification  and 
Christian  fellowship.    (Journal,  1888,  pp.  103,  114.  i 

§  38,  2,  3.    Celebration  of  Choir-Days. 

The  decision  as  to  the  observance  of  choir-days  in  the  6 
several  congregations  belongs  solely  to  the  minister  in 
conjunction  with  the  Board  of  Elders  or  Standing  Com- 
mittee of  the  respective  congregations.    (Journal,  1855,  p. 
108.) 


16 


i;  44.  1.    Parochial  Schooh. 

1  I.  Tliat  this  Synod  reiterates  the  declaration  of  the  Gen- 
eral Synod,  wliicli  urges  tlie  establishment  of  Parochial 
Schools  in  our  e(ni<;regations,  wherever  practicable. 

2  II.  That  t  lie  ministers  of  our  congregations  regard  the 
superintendence  of  the  Parochial  Schools,  wherever  such 
exist,  as  one  of  the  most  important  duties  of  their  office. 

3  III.  That  in  the  appointment  of  directors  and  officers  of 
Parochial  Schools,  it  shall  ever  be  borne  in  mind,  that  one 
main  object  of  such  institutions,  is  to  instill  into  the  minds 
of  our  children  and  youth,  sound  Christian  principles  and 
patriotic  love  for  the  Church.  (Journal,  1868.  pp.  101, 
121.) 

§  44,  3.    Sunday  Schools  and  Bible  Gooses. 

4  1.  Being  deeply  impressed  with  the  importance  of  Sun- 
day-schools and  Bible-classes,  it  is  reeonimended  that  all 
our  ministers  faithfully  maintain  them  where  they  already 
exist,  and  introduce  them  where  they  do  not.  (Journal, 
185.5,  p.  129,  §  11,  b.) 

5  II.  That  Synod  enjoins  upon  all  our  congregations  to 
continue  the  Sunday-school  during  the  Winter  season  as 
well  as  during  the  Summer ;  and  it  is  likewise  recommended 
that  the  teachers'  meetings  be  l  egularly  kept  by  the  pastors 
of  our  congregations.    ( Journal,  18<)4,  pp.  72,  82. ) 

<>  HI.  That  in  order  that  the  older  scholars  be  retained  in 
tlic  Sunday  school,  and  that,  in  genei'al,  our  people  may  be 
Ix'ttci  taught  in  the  Word  of  God.  the  Synod  earnestly  re- 
eouiiiiends  mir  |)astors  to  estal)lish  Bil)le-elasses  in  connec- 
linii  Willi  iini' Sunday  schools,  wheicvcr  these  do  not  already 
exist,  and,  it  jiossihle.  to  instruct  them  personally.  (Jour- 
nal, 1884,  pp.  :<;.  7N.  ' 

7  IV.  That  in  \  icw  ni  the  fact  that  the  Sabbath-school  is 
the  most  imi»orlant  auxiliary  of  the  Ciiristian  Church,  inas- 
much as  lives  may  be  rescued  from  tlie  ser\  ice  and  slavery 
of  Satan  and  won  for  our  Saviour  in  tlie  conversion  of 
{■hildrcn,  tliis  Synod  urges  it  upon  parents  who  are  com- 
municant memheis  of  oui'  Church,  as  their  sacred  duty,  to 
manifest  a  greater  interest  in  the  Sunday-school  work,  by 
personally  identifying  themselves  as  teachers  or  Bible  class 
scholars  of  their  several  Sunday  schools  in  so  far  as  circum- 
stances permit ;  thus  using  all  their  influence  to  encourage 
children  and  adults  to  a  more  faithful  attendance,  and  at 
the  same  time  to  retain  the  older  scholars  among  the  young 
men  and  women  as  regular  attendants,  i  Journal.  1876,  pp. 
87,  88.) 


17 


V.  That  this  Synod  recommends  that   Sunday-school  1 
prayer-meetings  for  teachers  and  scholars  be  held.  (.Tonr- 
nal,  1878,  i)p.  142.  U.S. ) 

VI.  That  we  deem  it  of  the  highest  importance  for  the  2 
welfare  of  oui-  Sunday-schools,  that  our  teachers  should 
freqiiehtly  and  statedly  unite  togethei-  in  prayer  foi-  their 
charges,  so  as  to  be  able  to  claim  the  blessings  of  the  Lord, 
promised  to  those  who  agree  in  calling  upon  Him.  (Jour- 
nal, 1881.  pp.  105,  106. ) 

§  47,  1.    Care  of  the  Poor  and  the  Sick. 

.    That  in  regard  to  systematic  efforts  for  the  relief  of  the  3 
poor,  the  special  attention  of  ministers  and  churches  be 
called  to  ^  84  of  the  Synodal  Eesults  of  1857.      47  of  the 
Synodal  Eesults  of  1879].    (Journal.  1S(U.  pp.  72.  79.  . 


CHAPTER  VII. 
DISCIPLINE. 

■5  48.  1.    Discipline  Essential. 

I.  That  as  descendants  of  the  Ancient  Brethren's  Church,  4 
we  deem  a  holy  discipline  essential  to  the  maintenance  and 
spiritual  growth  of  our  Church. 

II.  In  common  with  the  Ancient  Brethren,  we  under-  5 
stand  by  the  word  discipline,  in  its  widei'  sense,  a  faithful 
care  of  souls  by  means  of  public  instiuction  and  personal 
conversation  with  communicants  and  others.  The  latter  is 
especially  desij'able,  and  should  never  be  declined.  (Jour- 
nal, 1867"^,  pp.  81,  93.) 

Discipline. 

I.  WHEREA^^,   The  Church  of  Christ  is  called  at  this  (i 
time  to  take  advanced  ground  in  all  matters  pertaining  to 
Christian  character  and  duty  ;  and 

Whereas,  Our  Moravian  Church  has  always  sought  to  7 
attain  this  object  by  dealing  with  the  individual  believer, 
therefore, 

I.  Resolved,  That  this  Synod  urge  upon  our  ministers  and  8 
elders  anew  the  imj)ortance  of  caring  for  individual  souls, 
and  of  training  them  for  Christian  work  and  usefulness. 

II.  Besolved.  That  those  who  ha\  e  the  ovei  sight  in  our  y 
congregations  see  to  it  that  every  member  be  made  to  feel 
that  he  is  needed  in  the  work  of  the  Church  and  that  he  be 
assigned  to  some  place  of  active  service.    (Journal.  1888. 
pp.  103,  113.; 


18 


ij  48-58.    Memhem  to  he  imtructed  in  (he  Discipline. 

1  I.  That  the  Synod  recommends  to  the  pastors  of  all  our 
churches  the  reading  of  the  chapter  on  Discipline  to  their 
congregations  once  ('\  (TV  \  car.  (.lournal.  1S(>8.  pp.  77,  8.5.) 

2  II.  thatitsliall  lu-  tlic'  duty  of  pastors  and  Boards  of 
Eldei'S  to  make  tliciiiscl\'cs  and  tlicir  r('s])cctiv('  cniig'i'cga 
tions  fully  acciuaintcd  witli  llic  ('(iiilciils  of  the  ciia])tci'  on 
Discipline  in  the  Kesults  of  the  General  Synod  of  1S()!). 

(  Journal,  1870,  pp.  .88,  89  ;  1873,  p.  ()5.) 
:i      III.  Tlnxt  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  every  pastor  to  preach 
a  sermon  annually  on  the  subject  of  Church  Discipline. 
(Journal.  1S7,{.  p.  (i,'). ) 

4  lY.  That  our  Bishojjs  be  requested  to  ])repare  a  Tract  in 
both  the  English  and  German  languages,  to  he  one  of  the 
series  of  Moravian  Tracts  already  pul)lislic(l.  on  the  sub- 
ject of  Chui'ch  Discipline,  embodying  therein,  as  far  as  this 
is  possible,  .'!!»,  40.  41  and  42  of  the  Results  of  the  Gen- 
eral Synod  of  1870.    (Journal,  1888.  pp.  10.3.  114.) 

48  and  49.    Degrees  in  Discipline. 

5  In  a  lestricted  sense,  discipline  consists  in  reformatory 
and  penal  action  towards  eriving-  members,  and  has  three 

degrees. 

(i  1.  The  fli  st  degree  is  pi-ivate  reproof  and  correction  by 
the  pastoi',  oi-  other  official  brethi-en.  Sliould  this  fail  of 
the  desired  effect, 

7  2.  Tlie  second  degiee  must  be  applied  by  citing  delin- 
(pients  inio  the  presence  of  the  Eldei'S,  who  are  to  admon- 
ish them  faithfully  and  in  love.  A  contumacious  refusal  to 
meet  the  Elders  at  once  forfeits  nieniltersliip ;  whilst  a  re- 
fusal on  the  part  of  the  J{;iders  to  aid  tlie  j>astor  in  exercis- 
ing disci]dinc ol)lig(^s  tin-  church  council  to  supersede  them 
by  appoint iiig  sucli  f]ldcrs  as  are  willing  to  discharge  the 
duties  of  llieir  ofliee.  ^\'hen  in  the  exercise  of  this  degree 
of  discipline,  inimediate  reformation  is  not  attained,  the 
Elders  max  exercise  the  milder  discipline  of  suspension 
fi'om  the  coinniunion,  unless,  in  their  estimation,  offences 
are  so  Hagranl-  as  to  l  equire  the  application  of 

8  3.  The  third  degree  of  discipline,  which  is  exclusion  from 
chiarch  fellowship.  The  names  of  those  who  are  thus  ex- 
cluded, should  be  ])ul)lic]y  announced  in  a  meeting  of 
adult  members  of  the  Church,  and  heartfelt  ])rayer  offered 
up  that  thej^  may  be  reclaimed ;  M'hich  prayer  will  ever  be 
accompanied  by  a  readiness  to  extend  liearty  forgiveness  to 
such  as  are  penitent,  even  as  Chi-ist  forgave  us.  (Journal, 
1807.  PI).  SI.  m.  I 


1!) 


>i  48.  .").    Mode  of  E-rt-rcinc. 

I.  That  Synod  enjoins  pastors  and  Boards  of  Elders  faith-  1 
fully  to  cai  i'N  out  tile  dis<  i]i]ine  of  the  (liurch.  and  in  all 
cases  in  t tie  s|)iril  ol  palienee.  meekness  and  love.  (Jour- 
nal, 1870.  pp.  ss,  S!».  1 

II.  That  onr  ministers  and  elders  exercise  the  greatest  2 
possible  caie  in  tlie  matter  of  discipline,  tlioronghly  exam- 
ining <'\  (My  ease,  and  always  seetKiiiglo  adopt  sucti  reforma- 
tory nieasu  res  as  will  lie  most  henelicial  to  the  individual 
concerned,  lememheiing  t hat  whilst  we  should  put  away 
from  among  ns  those  wtio  peisist  in  evil  courses,  we  should 
also  endeavor  to  tiring  hact:  those  who  have  ei  red.  They 
should  also  see  to  it  that  ])eisons  who  apply  f'lr  admission 
from  other  ^loravian  congregations  aic  actually  in  good 
standing  in  the  same,  and  if  ottierwis(\  tliat  they  hi'st  prove 
the  sincerity  of  tlieir  professed  penitence  t)y  rectifying 
their  former  difficulties,  as  far  as  lies  in  their  power,  liefore 
being  I'eceived.    (Journal.  187().  pp.  78.  71*.) 

!^  48.  5.  Erroneous  Ol'  UmcriptHntl  Views  of  Doctrine. 
The  powers  and  duties  vested  in  Boards  of  Elders  fully  ;i 
authorize  and  i-eipui-e  them  to  exercise  discipline  on  those 
who  hold  enoueous  oi'  unscriptural  views  on  doctrinal 
points,  even  to  the  extent  of  exclusion  from  Church-fellow- 
ship, if,  in  their  opinion,  the  case  demands  it.  Of  cour.se. 
the  aggrieved  party  always  has  the  right  of  apjjeal  to  the 
Provincial  Elders'  Conference  or  the  Provincial  Synod. 
(Journal.  1870,  pp.  88.  89.  ) 

5;  48,  9.    ConipJa  'mtH  voneermng  Members. 

Every  niinistei-  may  at  once  decline  to  entertain  all  com-  4 
plaints  against  any  inemhei'  of  a  congregation,'  unless  the 
plaintiff  shall  agree,  in  case  it  be  re<|ui]ed.  peisonally  to 
confront  the  accused,    i  l{esolutions.  18.">5.  p.  2o.     i:^. ) 

50,  2.     AnnoHiicenieiil  of  E.rcbisioii  and  Rradvri.ssiou. 

Hea.dmission  is  to  be  determined  l)y  the  elders  and  an-  5 
nounced  to  the  Chureli.  as  well  as  exclusion.  (Journal. 
18f)7,  pp.  81.  m.) 

^  .")1.        CImrch  Rules. 

I.  Every  individual  congregation  is  bound  to  profess  ad  o 
herence  to  a  wi  itteu  or  piinted  agreement,  contaiTiing  the 
fmidamental  articles  of  its  constitution,  consonant  with  such 
principles  and  regulations  as  have  been  sanctioned  and 


20 

adopted  by  the  Provincial  and  Geneva!  Synods.  (Resoln- 
tions,  1855,  p.  20,  I,  1. ) 

1  II.  In  order  to  regnlate  discipline,  it  is  indispensable 
that  each  ehnrch  provides  itself  with  a  code  of  Church 
rules  duly  sanctioned  l>y  the  Provincial  Eldei's'  Conference. 
(Journal.'  IsdT.  i)|>.  si.  si',  <»;}.  i 

2  III.  Tliiit  I  his  Synod  call  attention  to  the  rule  adopted  by 
the  General  Synod  of  IS.")?,  to  wit:  That  evei'y  congrega- 
tion is  l)onii(l  lo  aurcc  to  a  certain  code  of  i(';iulatious, 
drawn  uj)  in  acc(H(lanc<'  witii  the  general  })rinciples  of  the 
Chui'ch,  and  containing  nothing  contrary  to  the  Synodal 
Results,  and  diicct  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  to 
re({uire  its  observance  bv  all  our  congregations.  Journal, 
1867,  pp.  95,  102. ) 

a  IV.  That  every  Brotherly  Agreement  hereafter  adopted 
by  any  congi'egation  sliall  contain  the  following  clause  : 
•'We  iieichy  cx])ress  our  cordial  assent  to,  and  agree  to  be 
governed  by,  tiie  enactments  of  the  (ieneral  Synod  of  the 
Moravian  Church,  and  the  Synod  of  the  Province  to  which 
our  congregation  belongs,  and  to  make  our  conduct  as  in- 
dividuals, and  our  course  as  a  congregation,  conform  to  the 
principles  set  forth  in  the  published  Results  of  said  Synods." 
(Journal,  18(57,  pp.  95,  102.) 

Preparation  of  Church  Rules. 

4  Every  congregation  is  at  liberty,  either  to  prepare  a  draft 
of  sucli  an  agreement,  which,  however,  previous  to  its 
adoption,  must  be  laid  before  the  Provincial  Elders'  Con- 
ference, for  its  sanction,  modification  or  rejection,  or  to  re- 
quest the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  to  furnish  such  a 
draft.  In  the  latter  case,  the  congregation  is  at  liberty  to 
])ro])osc  amendments,  or  to  reject  tlio  whole  and  substitute 
a  new  one.  subject,  however,  to  the  icv  ision  of  the  Provin- 
cial Elders'  Conference.  A  congregation  may,  if  necessary, 
empower  a  delegation  to  confer  with  the  Provincial 
Elders'  Conference  on  this  subject.  Whenever  the  Provin- 
cial Elders'  Conference  shall  have  expresscnl  their  sanction 
in  writing,  the  agi'eement  is  icady  to  receive  tiie  signatures 
of  the  members  ol  the  congregation.  (Resolutions,  1855, 
p.  20,  I,  2. ) 

Resistance  to  Church  Rules. 

5  Whoever  pertinaciously  resists  our  rules,  despises  all 
admonition,  exerts  an  injurious  influence,  gives  well- 
grounded  cause  of  offense,  and  becomes  the  seducer  of  others, 


21 


iTinst  necessarily  be  excommunicated,  in  accordance  with 
r lie  Apostle's  words:  "'Put  away  from  among  yourselves 
fli at  wicked  person."  1  Cor.  .5:  13.  (Resolutions.  18.5.5,  p. 
■_':•!.§  12.  3.) 

lucorpomfion  Does  not  Free  from  Rules. 

The  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  is  authorized  to  with-  1 
hold  its  sanction  from  any  proi)()S(>d  charter,  which  a  con- 
;i;r<',<;ation  may  hv  desirous  of  sccui  ing-.  unless  such  a  char- 
ter contains  a  clause  directly  asserting  that  nothing  shall 
be  done  oi'  taught  in  the  congregation,  contrary  to  the  rules 
and  principles  of  tlie  United  Brethren's  Church  in  the 
United  States  of  Xorth  America.    (Journal,  1847,  §  63.) 

Consent  of  the  Prorincial  Elders''  Conference  necessary  for  In- 
corporation. 

None  of  our  congregations  shall  apply  for  incorporation  2 
by  law.  without  tlie  express  assent  of  the  Provincial  Elders' 
Conference.  But  the  lattei-  is  authorized  to  give  this  assent 
only  when  in  siu*h  act  of  incorporation  due  regard  has  been 
paid  to  the  princii)les  and  obligations  [of  the  Brethi  en's 
Church].    (  Journal.  1849,  p.  26,  VIII.) 

Annual  Reports. 

.  1.  That  it  shall  be  a  rule  for  the  ministers  of  our  Province  3 
to  transmit  to  the  Provincial  Elders"  Conference,  during 
the  first  month  of  every  year,  a  lepoi  t  of  the  state  and 
historv  of  their  congregations  in  the  vear  preceding.  (Jour 
nal,  1867,  pp.  95.  102. ) 

II.  That  Eesolution  14,  Appendix  I,  Journal  of  1867,  4 
[given  above]  be  re-aflfirnied,  and  that   the  Provincial 
Elders'  Conference  be  instructed  to  have  said  resolution 
printed  upon  the  sheet  transmitted  to  Pastors  for  statistical 
returns.    (Journal,  1868,  p.  76.) 

Church  Diary. 

I.  Every  minister  should  keep  a  regular  Diary  of  the  5 
most  important  occurrences  in  his  congregation  and  of  his 
ow^n  official  acts.    (Journal.  1855,  p.  132,  §  2.3.  2.) 

II.  The  minister  of  each  congregation  .shall  keep  a  Diary,  a 
which  must  contain  a  record  of  all  the  public  services  held 

in  the  church,  unless  such  a  record  is  kept  in  a  separate 
form,  and  of  every  event  of  importance  belonging  to  the 
liistory  of  the  congregation.    (Journal.  1868.  pp.  43.  84.) 


A     the  Rules  Obsm-ftl 


1  That  the  bhmks  for  the  statistical  returns  annually  sent 
out  by  th<'  PToviiicial  Kldt'vs'  ContVircnce,  to  the  ministers 
ol'  tlic  (iil'tcTciil  coniiit'uat ions,  shall  contain  the  followinfj 
(|iit'st ion.  wliicli  cacli  niinistfi  shall  be  rcciuircd  to  answer, 
ill  writing.  li\  ■•^'t■s,"■  oi-  "No"  : 

"Hare  i/oii  I.  I  jil  i/onr  < 'linrch-book.  (Jataloyue  and  Diary  ac- 
coi  diiui  io  thr  Ji'lilcs  udopied  by  the  Proiy'incial  Synod  of  1868  ? 
(Journal.  l.S()S,  pj).  4;5.  84.) 

CHITKX'U  KKC'OKDS. 

Hulen  Relating  to  Church  Boohs. 

!i  I.  Ksu-h  Cluiroh-book  shall  contain  tlie  follo-wiiiff  sepiiraU'  and  dis- 
tinct rciristers  : 

A  i-cuislcr  of  I'xi jiti.siii.s  ill  Infants. 
A  ictiistci- ol'  Itiiiilisiiis  ,,i  Adults. 
A  rcfiistcr  of  Cmii !■  n,u l ,,, „s. 

A  j-cfiistcr  of  Ui  rri.i iini  nf  I  \j t)i  III  u ti  i ciiji I .  whicli  shall  contain  the 
uitnies  of  all  persons  riM  oi\.  cl  into  Chuich-fellowship  as  coinnuini- 
cants,  w  lietlicr  IVoiii  (  oi i- H  L;:itioiis  of  the  ^^ol•a\■ian  Ch\irch.  or  fronj 
other  (len.iniiiiatioiis. 

A  reuistei-  of  .\/,i  rri, ,,/,:■<. 

A  reuislci-  of  Fini,  i;i/.s. 

A  re-isl,.|-  of  I;,  iiinnils  .(ml  ni'<  „\  i  s.s,  1 1  s .  which  shall  contain  the 
names  ol  a  1 1  |  m  rsoiiv.  w  hct  her  coniniunicaul^,  ih>ii-coiinuunicants,  or 
cliildi  cii,  whov,'  couneclion  w  ith  the  coni; rc,L;:il  ion  is  dissolved  by 
chiinuc  .>!  i  .'si.li  iicc.  or  unitiiit;-  with  other  deiioui inat ions,  or  by  any 
otlier  c:insc  cxccpi  exclusion  from  Ch u I'di -fel lowship. 

A  i-ciiish  r  of  ()n/,,i,i/i,iii.s. 
;{       II.  I  n  m:d<  inu  an  eiit  ry  in  any  of  the  above  registers,  the  (iate  of 
the  t  ransaci  Ion  must  be  placed  in  a  column  rilled  i'or  tilis  purpose  ex- 
cbisi\el\  ,  on  the  left  hand  side  of  the  pa,^e. 

4  Til.  'i'lie  si'^nal  II  r-e  ol'  ihe  |  >asi ,  >r,  or  of  t  he  minister  olticiatiiig  in  his 
stead,  must  Im'  a|>|ieiidcd  o,  ilw  record  of  each  transaction. 

J\'.  K.ir\i  rcccnil  under  llic  head  of  fii/iinl  BapfiMiis,  must,  if  possi- 
ble, contain  I  he  follow  j  ni;  pa  i  t  iciilai-s  : 

The  full  name  of  the  child  :  t he  dale  of  the  child's  birth  ;  the  names 
of  the  parents,  and  tlu  mother's  maiden  name;  a  statement  whether 
the  parents,  i  >r  eilliei- of  tiiem.  are  members  of  the  congregation;  and 
names  of  the  sponsois,  if  there  are  nny  ;  the  place  and  occasion  of  the 
transact  ion. 

(»  \'.  lOacli  rei-ord  umler  the  head  of  Jlii /ttiiiniv  o/  A  diUt.'s.  must,  if  pos- 
sible, contain  the  followinu  particailars  : 

'I'lii'  full  name  of  the  |icrson  bapti/.ed:  a  statement  whether  the 
person  issiniile.  m.inied  or  widowed:  the  date  and  place  of  birth  of 
•he  person  liapli/.ed  :  ilic  naiin  ol  the  parents  of  the  person  baptized, 
and  the  mother'^  maiden  name:  t lie  place  and  occasion  of  the  trans- 
actjf)ii.  other  r<Miiai  ks  max  lit;  apjiended. 
7  V'l.  lOach  record  umler  the  head  of  nonfirniutioti.s.  must,  if  possible, 
<'Ontain  the  I'ollowiiin  par  Jcnlars : 

Tfie  full  name  of  the  |)erson  contirrned;  a  statement  whether  the 
(>erson  is  single,  married  or  widowed  ;  the  date  and  place  of  birth  ; 
the  name  of  the  parents  and  the  mother's  maiden  name;  the  place 
and  occasion  of  the  li'ansaction.    Other  remai  ks  may  be  appended. 

5  VII.  Each  record  under  the  head  of  Reception  of  Cnm.munieantK, 
must,  if  possible,  contain  the  following  particulars: 


23 


The  lull  name  of  the  person  received  into  Church-lellowship ;  a 
statement  whether  single,  married,  or  widowed:  the  name  of  former 
Church-connection;  the  date  and  place  of  birth  ;  the  place  and  occa- 
sion of  the  recevition,  when  the  same  is  public.  Other  remarks  mar 
be  appended. 

VIII.  Each  record  under  the  head  of  Marriufiex,  must,  if  possible,  1 
contain  the  following  particular  : 

The  full  name  of  the  bridegroom  ;  statement  whether  the  bride- 
groom is  single  or  widowed  ;  the  tiame  of  the  bridegroom's  parents, 
and  the  mother  s  maiden  name ;  the  date  and  place  of  the  bride- 
groom  s  birth  :  the  bridegroom  s  place  of  residence.  The  sameitems 
respecting  ilie  bride. 

lOacli  record  under  this  head  must  be  made  in  the  form  of  a  certifi- 
cate, and  must  contain  the  name  of  some  of  the  witnesses  of  the  cere- 
mony, if  any  are  present,  and  must  also  state  whether  tiie  parties,  or 
either  of  them,  are  members  of  the  Church  or  not. 

IX.  Each  record  under  the  head  of  Fiineralx.  must,  if  possible,  con-  2 
tain  the  following  particulars  : 

The  full  name  of  the  deceased  :  in  the  case  of  children,  the  parents' 
name,  and  the  mother's  maiden  name;  in  the  case  of  adults,  state- 
ment whether  single,  married,  or  widoweil ;  in  tlie  case  of  adults, 
statement  whetlier  the  deceased  was  a  communicant  of  tin- Climch  or 
not  ;  in  the  case  of  children,  statement  whether  the  iian  iits.  oi  cither 
of  them,  are  members  of  the  Church  or  not  ;  the  age  of  the  deceased; 
I  lie  date  of  decease,  and  nature  of  last  illness,  or  cause  of  death  ;  the 
place  of  interment ;  the  place  where  the  funeral  discourse  was  held. 
A  brief  memoir  may  be  appended. 

X.  Each  re(rord  under  the  head  oi'  Removals  and  Dismis-ialfi,  must.  3 
if  possible,  contain  the  following  particulars: 

The  full  name  of  the  person  whose  connection  with  the  congrega- 
tion is  dissolved  ;  the  class^single,  married  or  widowed  ;  whether 
communicant;  destination  or  name  of  future  Church-connection. 
Other  remarks  may  be  appended. 

XI.  Each  record' under  the  head  of  Ordhtafionx.  must  contain  the  -t 
following  particulars: 

The  full  name  of  the  person  ordained;  his  former  occupation  or 
degree;  his  destination  ;  the  place  and  occasion  of  the  transaction  ;  the 
name  of  the  officiating  bishop  or  bishops. 

XII.  Each  Church-book  must  contain  an  Index,  the  pages  of  which  o 
shall  contain  eight  ruled  columns,  in  which  the  pages  referred  to 
shall  be  written,  there  lieing  one  column  for  each  register  contained 

in  the  Church-book. 

Rules  Relating  to  the  Catalogues. 

I.  The  Catalogue,  or  list  of  members  of  each  congregation,  shall  (i 
be  written  in  a  book  which  shall  be  kept  by  the  minister  of  the  same, 
exclusively  for  this  purpose. 

II.  In  this  book  thenaraesof  the  members  of  the  congregation  shall  7 
be  written  under  the  following  divisions  and  sub-divisions  : 

1.  COMMUNIC'AXTS. 

a.  Married  couples,  b.  Married  men  whose  wives  are  not  mem- 
bers, c.  Married  women  whose  husbands  are  not  members,  d. 
Widowers,    e.  Widows.  /.  Single  males,   g.  Single  females. 

2.  NOX-COMMUNICANTS. 

a.  Males  over  thirteen  years  of  age.    h.  Females  over  thirteen  years 
of  age. 

3.  Children. 

a.  Boys  nnder  thirteen  years  of  age.    h.  Girls  under  thirteen  years 
of  age. 


24 


1  III.  To  names  occurring  under  the  fii-st division,  [Communicants], 
the  IVillowiua-  items  must,  if  possible,  be  appended,  in  columns  ruled 

for  til  is  ]>nrpose  : 

I.  Tlu' l)irtliil.i\'.  2.  The  father's  iianie.  H.  The  time  and  manner 
ot  ailiiiissi(.ii  Id  (  lim  (  h-lVllow  slii|i.  i  w  hetlier  by  confirmation,  adult 
haptisin.  cir  [■(■i-,.|Uiciin.  1.  Iiicasoiif  tlie  erasure  or  transfer  of  the 
name  to  another  siil)-(li\ision.  the  eaiise  of  such  chaufi-e. 
1>  IV.  I'd  names  orcuirinii  iimlei-  lln'  second  and  third  divisions. 
[Non-communicants  and  Childrenl,  the  lollowinfr  items  must,  if  pos- 
sible, he  appended,  in  columns  luled  for  the  purpose: 

1.  The  birthday.  The  father's  name.  3.  The  dale  of  baptism. 
4.  In  case  of  the  erasure  or  transferof  a  name  to  another  sub-division, 
the  cause  of  such  (ihan^e. 

3  ^^'hen  erasures  or  ti  ansfers  of  nauH'S  from  f)ne  sub-division  to 
anotlu'r  are  rendei-ed  necessary  1)\-  conlii-niation.  reinox  al (,)r dismissal, 
exclusion,  marriauc,  ileath,  or  advaniM'  in  a^l^  a  cross  (X  )  shall  be 
made  in  a  narrow  column,  ruled  for  this  |iiirpose.  on  the  left  hand  side 
of  each  pane  in  the  catalogue-book,  which  mark  will  si<rnify  that  the 
name  to  which  it  is  prelixed  no  longer  belongs  to  that  sub-division, 
and  oliviate  the  necessity  of  disttgui'iug  the  catalogue-book  by  the 
common  nu'thoil  of  making  erasures. 

4  \ Oft:.  -In  congregations  where  the  festivals  of  the  youths  and 
maidens,  anil  siimlc-ln'cthren  and  sinsrle-sisters  are  observed,  separate 
lists  of  ihiisc  (  hisses  orchoii-s  may  be  kept,  l>ut  not  in  the  eatalogne- 
liook  pr.ipcr,  lest  eonfiision  arise  in  (he  ision  of  the  congregation 
into  the  ilirec  classes  of  c. >n I m un ic-ai 1 1 s.  iioii-eeuinuinicailts  and  chil- 
ilren.     i.Ioni  iial.  ISCS.  pp.  .!!)- 4:;,  7 1 ,  T:;.  Ml.  S4.  i 

BookH  to  he  Provided. 

Tliat  Church  l>()()Us  and  Oatalo<>ii('-b()oks,  ruled  like  the 
s]((  (  iiucn  sliccts  ;t]>|>cii(l('<l  to  thi.s  report,  be  kept  on  sale 
at  I  III-  .AI()i  a\  iaii  l>u(>kslore,  tind  that  the  congregations  of 
this  Province  be  re({uested  to  procure  the  stune  for  their 
records.    (Journal,  1868.  pp.  43.  84.  i 

>;  52.  1.    Relations  to  the  Oivil  Qovernment. 

O  Our  Boiirds  of  Klders  and  Trustees  exercise  a  paternal 
office  only,  w  iiicli  consists  in  brotherly  mediation,  and  can 
in  no  wise  intci  f'cre  with  the  exercise  of  the  magisterial 
otilicc  in  tlic  cxcctition  of  the  Itiws  and  the  punishment  of 
transgressors. 

7  When  di.sputes  ai  isc,  the  Church -boards,  after  an  impar- 
tial examination,  should  mediate  between  the  parties  in  a 
brotherly  spirit,  and  so  bring  mtitters  to  an  amicable  set- 
th'menl.  But  as  cases  occur,  especially  in  reference  to 
pi  o])ci  t> .  wliich  c;in  only  be  decided  by  the  regular  legal 
atil  horif  ICS.  liiclliien  are  not  juvvented  from  bringing 
(|ucsl  ions  ol  t  his  description  before  the  appointed  tribunals. 
All  unnc(;essary  and  vexatious  litigation  is.  however,  in- 
<;ompatible  with  the  character  of  a  brother.  (1  Cor.  6:  1-7,) 
(Synodal  Kesnlts.  1848,  §  fil. ) 


25 


!;  53.  I .    Secret  Societies. 

Whilst  this  Synod  recognizes  that  differences  of  opinion  1 
prevail  amongst  Cliristians  upon  the  subject  of  secret  socie- 
ties, and  whilst  it  l  eniainsfor  eacli  Province  to  adopt  special 
rules  on  this  point,  our  ineml)crslnp  is  yet  earnestly  dis- 
suaded from  uniting  Avitli  associations  whose  objects  and 
principles  are  designedly  concealed  from  publicity  i  (!onsult 
John  3  :  20,  21).  aiui  their  attention  is  drawn  to  the  conflict 
with  the  principles  of  Christian  faith  to  which  such  asso- 
ciations mav  lead  them.  Svnodal  Eesults.  1S69.  Appendix 
C.  4 :  1879.  p.  1()2.  - 

.")3.  2.     WoddUj  Amusements. 

I.  That  our  ministers  be  earnestly  requested  to  preach  2 
the  Word  of  God  more  closely  and  earnestly  with  reference 
to  the  Christian  duty  of  wholly  abstaining  from  all  pleas- 
ures which  are  (luestiouable.  and  of  consistency  in  life  and 
(!Onveisation,  in  oider  to  exert  an  influence  for  good  by 
avoiding  even  the  appearance  of  evil.  (Journal.  1870.  pp. 
66,  67.) 

II.  That  the  Synod  aftectiouately  appeals  to  the  members  :i 
of  the  Church,  and  especially  to  parents  and  young  people. 

to  abstain  from  all  amusements  which  interfere  with  a  per 
sonal  devotion  to  Christ.    (Journal.  1876.  p.  78.) 

.53,  3.  Intemperance. 

Whereas  the  following  resolution,  adopted  by  the  Pro-  4 
vlncial  Synod  of  185.5.  is  still  in  force :  {vide  p.  85.  Journal 
of  1855. 

Whkreas  iuteiiiiierance  in  the  use  of  strong  drink  renders  men  in 
a  special  dearoe  the  servants  of  sin,  and  has  involved  thmisands  upon 
thousands  in  fearful  misery  and  ruined  body  and  soul ;  And  Whkre- 
AS  the  General  Svnod  of  1S4S  (see  i  (id.  Synodal  Results,  ls48),  adopted 
the  following,  to  wit: 

"In  consideration  of  the  great  responsihility  which  we  should  bring 
upon  ourselves,  as  members  of  a  congregation  of  Jesus,  if  we  were  not 
prepared,  as  much  as  lies  in  us.  to  prevent  the  abuse  of  spirituous 
liquors  in  our  congregations,  and  to  remove  the  oc(!asions  for  that 
abuse  as  far  as  possible,  the  Synod  resolves,  that  it  should  be  en- 
Joined  on  all  congresration-conferences.  and  especially  on  all  con- 
gregation-wardens, to  pay  conscientious  attention  Ki  tliis  point,  and 
strictly  to  see  to  it,  that,  in  our  congregiUion-inns,  and  also  on  the 
part  of  such  |)rivate  persons  as  have  had  permission  to  eni:auo  in  the 
trade,  sale  of  liquor  be  limited  to  what  is  actually  necessary,  and  that 
no  sordid  consideration  of  gain  be  permitted  to  g'ive  occasion  to  sin  in 
any,  whether  in  or  out  of  our  connection.  .Should  the  congregation- 
conferences  be  unable  to  prevent  the  abuse  in  question,  and  therefore 
resolve,  sujiported  by  the  spirit  of  tlio  (congregation,  and  with  due 


2« 


regard  to  local  circiiinstances.  upon  ilie  eiiiire  discontinuance  of  the 
sale  of  liquors  in  their  settlements,  such  a  measure  has  the  cordial 
sanction  of  the  Synod  "—Therefore. 

liesoJvvd,  'IMiiit  tliis  Piovincial  Synod  hereby  le-allirins  the  princi- 
ples involved  in  the  luicnoinu  prcainlilc  and  i-esohition  of  the  (Jeneral 
Synod  of  1S4^.  and  midiallx  ■  s\  inpallii/os  with  all  pi-o|ier  measures 
for  the  suppression  of  inU  inpcrance  and  of  the  manufacture  and  sale 
of  intoxicating-  driulvs  ■  — 

1  And  Whekkas  inom-  oi)iiiioii  tin-  aho\ u  lesolutioii  (•(>\  its 
the  whole  groiiud  wliicli  a  Synod  of  our  Chiirch  can  occupy 
on  Mie  subject  of  teniperance,  thciefoic. 

Resolved.  I.  That  while  our  Synod  cann(»t  consistently 
witl)  the  truly  catholic  platform  of  our  Church  take  any 
further  and  more  definite  action  in  favor  oftIiecau.se  of 
tempeiaucc.  than  has  already  been  done,  by  the  action  of 
our  ( iciici  al  Synods  of  1S4S  and  1857.  (vide  ^  78,  p.  117  of 
Synodal  K'csii ils  of  18r)7.  and  of  our  ProA-incial  Synod  of 
IS."),  paii'c  s,")i:  wf  do.  nevertheless,  most  cheerfully  ac- 
know  ledjit'  the  great  amoinit  (d  good  done  through  the  in- 
strunu'utalif \  of  associations  formed  for  the  sui)pression  of 
the  sin  (d'  itit (mii|i(  raiice.  iind  we  do  lieartily  bid  them  frod- 
s]»ee(l.  as  liaiidiiiaids  of  the  religion  of  Jesus,  which  con- 
tains the  oidy  true  panaceti  oi'  I'adical  cure  for  all  sin.  (Jour- 
nal. is(ii.  pi').  .").!.  (;;5. ) 

2  II.  That  this  Synod  recommends  to  the  ministers  of  those 
congregations  cs|)('cially  where  the  vice  of  intemperance  in 
the  use  (d' iutoxicat  iiig  di  inks  |iic\  ails.  to  preach  the  Word 
of  (  Jod  with  close  and  special  rcdermce  to  this  growing  sin. 
as  the  only  remedy  lo  (dfccl  its  radical  cui'c. 

But  in  eoDuectiou  with  preaching  u])on  this  .subject,  and 
inasmuch  as  an  (Extraordinary  evil  requires  an  extraordi- 
nary rem<'dy,  therefore. 

ti  Remlvah  HI.  That  this  Synod  advises  the  pastors  of  our 
cougregatious  tt>  submit  the  matter  of  intemperance  to  a 
congregation  council,  in  order  1o  draw  more  attention  to 
it;  and  Synod  furthermore  suggests,  thai  it  would  be  de- 
sirable to  raise  the  standard  of  )>id)lic  npiiiiou  in  the  con- 
gregation, and  eoneoitrale  the  (dforts  of  its  members  by 
(moemted  aetion  in  tiie  s)iirit  of  the  Church  and  the  Gospel 
iviiU  1  Cor.  8:  i  ;  :  Koiii.  1  t  :  L'l)  to  I'oot  (uit  this  dreadful 
vice,  and  thus,  m  ilh  I  lie  aid  of  divine  grace,  turn  the  sub- 
jects of  inteiiipeianci'  fi  nin  the  power  of  Satan  unto  God. 
Vjournal,  1S(H.  p.  :>!»  :  lSt;7,  pp.  90,  94.) 

4  rv.  That  this  Synod  is  opposed  to  all  traffic  in  intoxicat- 
ing drinks,  and  the  me  as  a  beverage  of  hard  cider,  beer, 
ale,  whisky,  wine,  brandy,  gin,  rum,  ])atent  bitters,  etc., 


;iiid  would  mspeetfully  urge- all  the  member!?  of  our  (ihuroh 
lo  abstain  tlieiefrom.    (Journal.  1S73.  p.  83.) 

V.  That  tliis  Synod  leartirms  all  its  former  recoiumenda-  1 
tions  and  icsolutioiis  leferi  inii  to  the  use  of  intoxicating 
liquors  and  the  position  our  Chuich  has  taken  on  the  tem- 
perance (piest  ion.    (.Jouinal.  ISSS.  p.  115.  i 


CHAPTEK  Vlli. 
■J'Hi;  s^KHAWNTS  OV  THE  CHUKCH. 

§  5H,  1 .    Ministcru  arc  not  JndcpendeM.  and  owe  Obedience. 

I.  That  Synod  re  aftinii  the  rule  laid  <U»\vn  in  >j  S2  of  the  2 
Results  of  the  Genei-al  Synod.  1n.")7  [Results  of  IST!),  §  56. 
1],  in  substance  ;us  follows  :  No  minister  of  the  Brethren's 
Church  occupies  an  independent  ])ositiou.  but  is  accounta- 
ble for  the  execution  of  his  tinst  t(»  the  Unity's  Elders' 
Conference,  or  the  Piovincial  Elder.s'  Conference,  to  whom 
he  owes  obedience.    (Journal.  1<S(>S.  j).  73.) 

II.  That  we  .solemnly  call  upon  all  our  brethren  in  tlu'  .'J 
ministry  to  .search  theii'  heai  ts  and  try  their  ways  before 
Him  who  still  cries  to  each  one  of  the  angels  of  the  churches. 
•'I  know  thy  works  :"'  and  then  to  pi-eacli  the  Word  of  tin- 
Cross,  and  in  their  own  lives  to  exemplify  the  holy  princi- 
ples of  the  Cospel.     holding  faith  and  a  g(M)d  (  (uiscience.'" 

TIT.  That  this  Synod  urges  the  IMovincial  Elders'  Omfer-  4 
ence  to  be  thoi-ongh.  tirm  and  faithful  in  exercising  the 
discipline  of  the  Church  upon  its  ministers.  (J<mrnal. 
1884.  pp.  77.  7S.  ) 

$  5<>.  2.    (bnifieyalioii  Conferences. 

In  each  congregation  there  ai-e  three  Conferences  for  the  o 
management  of  its  affairs :  the  Board  of  Eldei  s.  the  Board 
of  Trustees  and  the  Churchcouncil.  which  act  in  conjunc- 
tion with  the  pastor.  It  is  tlir  important  ol)ject  of  these 
Conferences  to  promote  the  welfare  of  the  congregations. 
To  this  end  it  is  recinisite  that  the  members  be  not  in- 
fluenced by  selfishness  and  self-inteie.st.  but  that  sincere 
love  to  the  Lord  and  to  the  congiegations.  unity  of  spirit 
and  mutual  unreserved  confidence  bear  the  sway.  Each 
member  has  the  right,  or  rather  it  is  his  duty,  to  declare 
hi.s  .sentiments  freely,  according  to  the  best  of  his  judgment : 
but  this  should  always  be  done  with  modesty,  and  with  the 
respect  due  to  such  a.n  as.sembly. 


28 


1  To  secure  freedom  of  discussion,  it  is  necessary  that  each 
member  of  a  Conference  may  be  able  to  rely  upon  it,  that 
his  sentiments  will  not  be  divulged. 

2  Tn  the  hu  iii  r  Conferences,  as  the  Church-council  and  the 
Board  of  fi  usUcs,  whenever  a  resolution  of  importance  is 
proposed.  I  lie  o])inion  of  Mie  Tncmbers  i)resent  mu.st  be 
taken  li\  \oliii*;.  intlie  lionrd  of  I']ldeis  also,  this  mode 
may  in  some  eases  Ite  advisable,  in  oidei'  that  no  member 
may  be  pivx cui .d  by  timidity  from  giving  his  opinion. 
But  in  eas(  >  wiu  ieiu  all  the  members  of  the  Conference 
oaiuiol  feel  satislied  with  the  conclusion  of  the  majority, 
the  matter  ninst  he  laid  before  the  Provincial  Elders'  Con- 
ference, for  decision. 

When  a  <  "onference  lias  come  to  a  resolution,  all  the  mem- 
bers ai-e  bouml  to  do  their  best  to  carry  it  out.  The  rule, 
sanctioned  by  expeiience.  nmst  be  maintained,  that  Con- 
ferences yield  eacli  otiier  nintnal  assistance  and  respect,  and 
avoid  all  i iil ei  lcicnce  w ith  one  another.  "While  all  work 
togetlier  in  t'lirliierainc  oi'  one  and  the  same  object,  with 
harmony  and  brot  Imm  Iv  loxc.  there  will  arise  no  jealousy, 
and  the  words  of  Scrijdnre  will  be  verified  :  "Behold  how 
good  and  how  ph'asant  it  is  for  brethren  to  dwell  together 
in  unity!  F(n- there  the  Lord  commandeth  the  blessing, 
even  life  foi'  evei  more.''  Psalm  ISS :  1.  .'1  (Synodal 
Results,  1848,  §67.) 

Who  are  Members  of  the  Church  Council. 

4  In  North  America  all  adult  brethren  are  members  of  the 
Church -council.    (Synodal  Results,  1848,  §  7.3. ) 

Tlie  Sisters  may  also  be  mxide  Members. 

^  Whenev<'i'  a  Church-council  expressly  desires  it,  congre- 
gations ai-e  |)ei  iiiitted  to  admit  sisters  as  full  members  of 
the  Chnicli  council — such  aeourse  being  the  re-introduction 
of  a  former  usage  among  us.  (Synodal  Results,  1848,  §  73.) 

General  Bminess  Meetings. 

fi  Besides  the  nie<1ings  of  the  Church -council,  all  the 
brethren  and  sisters  who  are  of  age  may  be  called  together 
in  cases  of  imi>ortance,  when  it  is  desirable  to  ascertain  the 
sense  of  the  whole  congregation.  (Svnodal  Results.  1848. 
§  74.  ) 

rfoi,nt  Meetings  of  Church  Boards. 

7  in  cases  where  the  Boards  of  Elders  and  Trustees  are 
not  agreed  in  opinion,  it  is  advisable  that  the  brethren  of 


29 


1)1  irh  Boards  should  meet  for  murual  consultation.  This 
may  also  be  done  at  other  times,  when  a  matter  of  impor 
raiice.  or  one  that  requires  a  speedy  adjustment,  is  to  be  ar- 
r;ui<ifd  ;  and  the  practice  will  promote  mutual  confidence. 

The.se  joint  meetings,  however,  do  not  decide  by  voting-,  I 
[iliat  is.  by  a  preponderance  of  votes].  Should  the  case 
occur  that  the  two  Boards  cannot  agree  upon  a  subject,  ref- 
erence should  be  made  to  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference 
inr  a  decision,  with  a  statement  of  tlie  grounds  of  their 
diilerent  opinions,    f Synodal  Eesults.  1848.  §  70.) 

Who  are  Eligible. 

To  be  eligible  as  office-bearers,  brethren  must  be  full  2 
communicant  members  of  the  congregation  wishing  to  elect 
them,  and  not  in  arrears  for  cliurch-dues.    [Eeforence  is 
also  had  to  the  requirements  of  the  laws  of  the  State  of  New 
York.]    (Synodal  Eesults.  1848.  M  67  to  76.  passim.  ) 

The  Minister  and  all  other  Members  of  Church -hoards,  bound  by 
the  Decisions  of  the  respective  Boards. 
The  menibei  s  of  all  Boards  of  Elders,  including  their  pre-  3 
siding  officers,  are  snliject.  together  with  the  othei'  ministers 
I'esident  in  the  places  where  such  Boaids  have  been  estab- 
lished, to  these  Boards,  and  are  bound  to  obey  tluMr  consti- 
tutional enactments.  In  case  siich  enactments  -aw  not  con- 
cordant with  the  conscientious  convictions  of  a  brother,  the 
ProA^incial  Elders"  Conference  must  act  as  umpire.  (Eeso- 
lutions.  p.  21,  II,  1.) 

Qualifications  for  Eldership  and  Trusteeship. 

I.  That  our  congregations,  in  appointing  men  to  the  office  4 
of  Elders  or  Trustees,  should  conscientiously  select  such  as 
have  the  needful  gifts  and  grace  to  assist  the  minister  in 
his  spiritual  work,  V)y  prayer  and  exhortation — men  whose 
minds  and  hearts  are  in  the  work. of  saving  souls.  (Jour- 
nal, 1861,  pp.  .52,  66,  67.  ) 

II.  That  this  Synod  would  again  remind  the  ministers  5 
and  Boards  of  Elders  in  our  congregations  of  their  duty  to 
work  together  earnestly  and  faithfully,  not  only  in  regard 

to  the  temporal  affiiirs  of  the  Church,  but  also  to  the  spirit- 
ual interests  of  the  Lord's  people  over  whom  they  have 
been  called  "to  have  the  rule." 

III.  That  the  same  office-bearers  in  the  Church  should  6 
seek  out  any  possible  localities  in  the  neighborhood  without 
the  means  of  grace,  and  supply  them  at  least  with  the  Sun 


day-school  and  prayei  -nieetiug  at  stated  times,  either  per- 
sonally, or  t  lirongh  luenibers  qualified  for  such  work.  T  Jour- 
nal. 1SS4.  pp.  7(i.  77.  7S.  ) 

TiiH)  Boards  Dedrahle. 

1  J.  Tliat  Mu'  Synod  express  its  Judgment  to  tlie  eltect  that 
in  each  congregation  tlie  Hoard  of  Elders.  charg<;d  with 
the  care  oxvv  the  brotherly-agreenieut.  should  form  a  sepa- 
rate body  from  llie  •'Committee"  or  Board  of  Trustees, 
charged  with  tiie  secular  affairs  of  the  congregation. 

2  II.  That  in  tlie  opinion  of  the  Synod,  such  brethren 
should  be  chosen  into  the  Board  of  Elders,  as  have  the  gift 
of  grace  foi'  dealing  with  souls  in  i)rivate. 

a  III.  That  the  ])astors  be  instructed  before  each  election 
of  Elders  to  inform  their  resjn'ctive  congregations  upon  the 
natures  of  the  Eltlers"  office  and  of  the  duties  required  of 
them,  and  when  the  Elders  liaA'c  been  elected,  they  be  sol- 
emnly introduced  into  their  office  in  the  presence  of  the 
congregation. 

+  lY.  That  the  Provincial  Elders"  C(mference  be  instructed 
to  authorize  the  Bishops  to  diaw  u])  a  circular  embodying 
the  teachings  of  Scripture  and  of  the  Church  on  this  sub-, 
ject,  and  that  such  cii  culars  be  i.ssued  as  frequently  as  the 
Bislu)])s  may  deem  requisite.    uJonrnal,  1876.  pj).  77.  78.) 

57.  I.    Privilege  of  Veto  in  certmn  Caries. 

.">  1.  Tliat  as  often  as  the  ai)pointnient  of  a  brothei-  as  min- 
ister of  a  cil.\  or  country  coiigic<;al  ion  lias  hccn  ai)proved, 
the  ProA'iiicial  l'>l(lci's"  Coiifcicncc  shall,  licl'orc  the  case  is 
tinally  scltlc(l.  consult  w  ith  the  (.'(nnmittce  of  the  congrega- 
tion coiicei  ned.  and  icceive  its  consent  to  the  appointment, 
in  ordei-  thai  mutual  confidence  may  be  maintained  and 
fuithered.  al\va\s  piov  uled.  lio\ve\  er.  that  the  Committee 
act  according  to  its  kuow  leilge  of  tliingsand  i>erson.s,  with- 
out calling  a  meeting  |>I  ll"'  <'oiigregat  ion  and  learning  tlic 
o])inion  of  the  same.     •  l'io\  incial  Synod.  INIT.  i 

<>  [I.  It  l.einga  piinciple  ol  the  I'.re't  liren's  Chuich,  that  a 
teacher  cannot  lie  forced  upon  a  congicgat ion  against  its 
will,  no  lalMMci.  ( /.  ('..  minister).  (;an  enter  upon  an  office  in 
our  "Place  <  diigregat  ions without  the  consent  of  the 
Elders'  Conl'erencc  [Board  of  Elders]  to  whom  the  congre- 
gation has  ti-ausferred  the  right  inlieivnt  in  the  same.  In 
ou)-  city  and  country  congregations,  the  Comnuttee,  in  this 
re.spect,  takes  the  place  of  the  Elders'  Conference  in  our 
•'Place  Congregati<ms."    In  neither  of  them,  however,  is 


81 


the  eongivgation  itself  allowed,  eitliei-  in  full  or  in  i)ai  t,  to 
give  an  immediate  vote  on  the  subject.  (Svnodal  Results. 
1818.  Chapter  [X.  A.    10:  Journal.  ISSl.  p]).  r>2.  104.  ) 

III.  Wheiever.  in  accordance  with  oui-  Constitution  as  1 
hitherto  existing,  congregations  have  had  the  right  to  veto 
the  api)ointjnent  made,  that  right  is   not  extinguished. 
(Resolutions.  ISii.").  p.  21,  U.  .").  ) 

Priinlege  of  Nomination  and  Petition. 

In  case  of  the  occurience  of  vacancies,  bretlii  en  may  be  2 
named  by  a  congregation,  as  being  in  its  opinion  calculated 
to  fill  them,  but  the  Provincial  Elders*  Conference  is  not 
bound  to  res])ect  such  propositions,  any  further  than  it  ma> 
deem  proper.  On  the  other  hand.  c\ciy  congregation  is 
authorized,  in  case  its  confidence  in  any  of  its  luinisteiing 
brethren  is  shaken,  candidly  to  stale  tlie  lact  to  the  Provin- 
cial Elders'  Conference,  and  tliis  Ixidy  will  act  in  the  matter 
according  to  its  conscientious  con\  i<'tions.  aftei-  having  in- 
stituted a  thorough  investigation. 

Conferences,  committees,  and  individuals  liave  petitionary  .*5 
powers  with  respect  to  tlic  Pi(>\  inciai  Elders'  Conference. 
All  petitions  dinctcil  id  this  IJoaid  must,  however,  be 
couched  in  respect  fnl  terms,  and  evidence  a  brotherly  dis- 
position. In  case  any  complaint  against  a  minister  is 
lodged  with  the  Provincial  Elders"  Conference  he  may  in 
sist  on.  knowing  the  name  of  his  accuser.  (  Resolutions. 
1855,  p.  21.  II.  6.) 

5i  57,  5.    Retirement  frov}  the  Ministr//. 

That  in  all  cases,  when,  aftei-  a  trial  for  a  reasonable  time.  4 
a  minister  be  foxind  to  be  not  a(la])ted  to  the  sei'vice  of  the 
Church,  the  Provincial  Elders'  Confci  ence  shall  inform  him 
of  the  fact — and  at  the  end  of  one  ycai'  tVom  said  notifica- 
tion, all  claim  on  the  part  of  said  minister  to  aid  fnmi  the 
funds  of  said  Church  shall  cease  :  provided,  that  nothing 
contained  in  this  resolution  shall  be  so  construed  as  to 
j)revent  the  brother  consideiing  himself  aggrieved  from 
appealing  to  the  Provincial  Synod.    ( Journat.  1864.  p.  78.  i 

§  58.     THK  THEOLOfxICAL  SEMINARY. 

Moral  Responsibility  of  Students. 

I.  Should  any  si  udent  leave  the  Seminarxor  t  he  scr\  i(!e  of  *> 
the  Church  without  having  served  as  teacher,  lor  -.w  least  five 
years,  he  shall  l)e  held  under  moi'al  obligations  to  refund 
the  expenses  of  his  education  from  the  time  of  his  entering 
the  preparatory  class,    ijourual.  lS-t9.  Resolution  ) 


32 


1  II.  That  the  Synod  commends  the  action  of  the  Faculty 
of  the  College  and  Theological  Seniinai-y  with  reference  to 
the  pledge  recjuired  of  new  students  upon  enteiing  said  in 
stitution. 

2  III.  That  the  section  of  the  Report  of  the  President 
bearing  on  this  point  be  embodied  among  the  statutorj'  reso 
lutions  of  the  Provincial  Synod,  [namely:  "  That  they 
pledge  themselves  in  particular  to  give  to  the  Church  at 
least  two  years  of  service  for  each  and  every  year  of  free 
education  which  they  have  received ;  and  that  in  case  they 
fail  to  enter  that  service,  or  leave  the  ministry  of  the  Mo- 
ravian Church,  except  they  be  compelled  to  retire  by  reason 
of  sickness,  they  will  l  efund  the  expenses  of  their  educa- 
tion to  the  amount  of  at  least  $150  for  each  year  of  board 
and  tuition  that  they  have  received."]    (Journal,  1888.  pp. 

108,  113.) 

Faithfulness  to  be  Inculcated. 

'i  Immediately  upon  entering  this  class  [preparatory  to  the 
Tlu'olooiciil  Seminary]  tlie  student  is  in  a  solemn  manner 
to  lie  made  attentive  to  the  imjjortance  and  t  he  diit  ies  of  the 
ealliiiL;  w  liicli  he  has  elioseii  lor  himself,  li'  tlie  students 
enter  as  //ratniti.  they  are  to  be  ivniinded  that  they  are  morally 
bound  lieicatter  faitlifully  to  serve  the  Lord  and  His  con- 
greicalion  and  not  to  walk  in  their  OAvn  ways.  This  duty  is 
frequent ly  to  be  insisted  on.  and  previous  to  their  admis- 
sion into  the  Theological  Seminary,  the  students  shall  be  re- 
quired soleinnlv  to  acknowledge  that  they  regard  it  as  their 
duty.    (Journal.  1847.  §  98,  b  ;  1849,  Eesolutions  28,  37.) 

QimlificationH  of  Professors. 

•t  That  the  Professors  in  the  Seminary  nnist  be  men  of  de- 
cided piety  and  liteiary  acquirements,  and  the  President  a 
man  of  ministerial  experience  ;  and  that  the  spiritual 
charge  over  the  students  belongs  to  the  President,  and  must 
be  faithfullv  attended  to  bv  him.    (Journal.  18.5.5,  pp.  95, 

109.  110. ) 

The  Location  and  Present  Arranf/ement,s  of  the  Seminary. 

/>      1.  That  an  institution  be  established  under  the  name  of 

The  Morarian  Collcf/c  atiil  71ic(>l<if/ical  Seminary.'''' 
O      II.  That  the  buildin-  on  (  Imrch  street  in  Bethlehem, 

*  *  *  *  be  used  for  tlie  ])uiposes  of  the  institution. 
7      III.  That  a  fund  of  $20,000  be  created,  to  be  called  ''the 

endowment  fund,"  with  the  capital  coming  to  this  Province 


33 


in  accordance  with  the  resolution  of  the  General  Synod  of 
1857. 

IV.  That  with  tlic  iiiliMvst  of  tliis  lutid  siicli  ix-rsons  1 
shall  be  educated  or  assisted,  desiring  to  i)rcparc  tlu'jnscivt's 
for  service  in  any  of  tlic  dc|)artni('nts  ol'tiic  Cliiii'ch,  as  lia\  <■ 
not  Ihc  iiicans  to  i»ay  for  their  i'(hieation.  and  foi'  wlu)se 
ediuatioii  no  iithcr  means  are  provided. 

V.  That  yoniiii'  men  wisliiiig  to  i)rei)are  for  any  profession  2 
in  life,  shall  be  achnitted  into  the  institntion.  on  terms  to  be 
fixed  by  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference. 

Yl.  That  the  endowment  fund  be  increased,   if  jxtssible.  U 
by  collections  :  and  t hat  e\ ejy  elforl  be  made  lo  aiif;'ment 
the  annual  revenue,  l)y  ajinual  colleetions  in  tlie  congrega- 
tions of  the  Noi  thern  and  Southern  Provinces. 

VII.  That  the  institution  be  unth'r  tlu-  charge  of  a  Presi-  4- 
dent.  who  shall  l)e  al  the  same  time  the  principal  Professor. 
*  *  *  *  whose  relation  to  the  Pi'ovincial  Elders" 
Conference  and  the  institntion,  shall  l>e  the  same  as  that  of 
the  ins])eetois  of  oui'  Church  Schools  to  the  Provincial 
Eldeis"  Conference  and  the  institutions  under  their  care. 

VIU.  That  there  be  two  more  regulaj'  Professois.  5 

IX.  That  the  organization  of  the  classes,  the  conrse  of  <» 
studies,  the  arrangements  in  the  college  l)ni](lings.  and  all 
the  other  extermd  and  intei  nal  details  oj  tlie  enter])i  ise,  be 
left  to  the  Presith'nt  and  his  assistant  Pi  ofessors,  snl)ject  to 
the  approval  of  the  Provineial  El(h']  s'  Confereuee,  with  the 
exception  of  the  salaries  of  the  President  and  Professoix 
which  siiall  be  tixed  by  tlie  Provincial  Elders'  Coid'erence 
only.    (Joui  ual.  b^:")S.  i)p.  .IG-tiO  ;  ISCA,  pp.        G.3.  ) 

X.  That  th<' College  and  Theological  Seminary  be  estab-  7 
lished  on  a  broader  basis,  to  the  end  that  its  si)here  of  use- 
fulness be  enlaiged,  and  its  course  of  instruction  l)e  reu 
dered  still  more  thorough. 

XL  That  this  Synod  recommends  to  the  special  attention 
of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  the  establishnuMit  of 
a  separate  claSvsical  dejiartment,  prepai'atoiy  to  tiie  course 
of  instruction  pursuetl  at  the  College — either  at  Nazareth 
Hall,  or  al  tin-  College  at  Bethlehem. 

XII.  That  cases  of  admission,  rejection  and  expulsion  be  ^ 
decided  by  the  Faculty  only,  but  in  the  case  of  students  who 
are  beneficiaries  of  the  Church,  the  Pi'ovincial  Elders'  Con- 
ference shall  be  consulted. 

XIII.  That  the  ofticial  title  of  the  brother  at  the  head  of  10 
the  College  be  ''President."    (Journal,  1864,  pp.  60,  61. 
63,  65.  j 

3 


34 


J  XIY.  That  the  term  of  office  of  the  President  of  the 
Moravian  College  and  Theological  Seminary  is  nowhere  de- 
fined ;  but  that  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  be  em- 
powered to  make  and  fill  vacancies  in  said  office,  according 
to  §  65  of  the  Synodal  Results  of  1857.  (Journal,  1864,  p. 
75.) 

A  JVT'M"  Buildbig. 

Wheeeas.  The  building  of  the  Theological  Seminary  is 
unlit  aiul  inadeqnate  for  the  purpose  for  which  it  is  in- 
tended :  and. 

Wheke  vs.  The  Cliui  ch  has  for  a  long  time  felt  the  neces- 
sity for  ])ri)vi(liiig  a  more  commodious  and  suitable  building 
for  this  her  most  impoitant  institution  of  learning;  and, 
_^  \\'hekea>s.  a  Menioriai  lias  been  picscntccl  to  this Sj'nod 
by  cei'tain  brethren  in  IMinnesota.  ])raying  that  the  Theo- 
logical Seminary  be  i-cmoxcd  to  (inadcnhuetten.  Ohio,  and 
that,  in  accordance  with  this  nicmorial.  the  congregation  at 
(riuulcnhnetten  has  offered  a  snitable  site  for  a  Theological 
Seminary  :  therefoi'e, 

L'csolred,  I.  Tliat  a  Building  Committee  of  five,  of  which 
the  Presi(h'nt  and  the  Resident  Professor  shall  lie  members, 
be  ai)iiointed  by  the  Cliairinan  at  his  h-isiuc,  which  shall  in 
conjunction  with  the  Provincial  Elders"  Conference  inquire 
into  the  cxpediencj'  of  disposing  of  the  present  building 
and  site,  and  erecting  a  new  building  in  some  suitable  lo- 
cality. 

(}  II.  That  in  the  matter  of  sites  the  Committee  shall  give 
due  consideration  to  the  proposition  from  Gnadenhuetten. 
(Journal.  1888,  pp.  53,  68,  69.) 

Expectations  of  the  Church. 

7  1.  T'hat  the  Synod  desires  to  impress  upon  the  attention 
of  the  Faculty  of  the  College  and  Theological  Seminary, 
that  the  Church  looks  to  this  institution  for  the  graduation 
of  thoroughly  t  rained  and  pious  candidates  for  the  ministry. 
(Journal.  ISdt.  j)]).  (K).  (;.").  ) 

II.  That  the  Colleue  authorities  be  directed  to  encourage 
and  pr(!pare  young  men  to  enter  the  Foreign  MivSsion  field. 
I,  Journal,  1870,  pp.  82,  83.  j 

tj  III.  That  Synod  impresses  on  the  minds  of  the  proper 
authorities  in  the  Moravian  College  and  Theological  Semi- 
nary, the  absolute  necessity  of  making  adequate  arrangements 
in  the  same,  to  prepare  our  theological  students  thoroughly 


35 


in  regard  to  the  German  language,  for  serving  as  pastors  in 
such  of  our  congregations  in  which  the  holding  of  divine 
service  in  said  tongue  is  required.  (Journal,  1S7().  p.  SS. ) 

IV.  Whkrkas.  The  Conunittee,  after  in(|uiriiig  into  the  i 
facts  of  the  case,  has  found  the  statistics  foi' t  lie  last  twenty 
years  to  be  as  follows  :  twenty-four  graduates  ii;n  ing  com- 
mand of  English  alone,  forty-one  of  both  English  juid  Ger 
man  :  for  the  last  ten  years,  tAvelve  al)le  to  eonduct  services 
in  English  only,  twenty-fonr  in  English  and  German,  the 
latter  being  almost  double  the  former  in  nnmber:  there- 
fore, 

Resolved.    That   Synod    acknowledges   what   has   been  2 
already  accomplished  with  regard  to  this  question,  and 
urges  that  every  effort  continue  to  be  made  to  tit  our  gradu- 
ates to  preach  in  both  languages.    (Journal,  ISSS.  pp.  53. 
68.) 

Pledge  of  Office  frmii  Pi  ofesHorn. 

I.  That  a  pledge  of  office  he  l  etpiired  from  all  those  who  :5 
are  engaged  as  teachers  and  jnofessors  in  the  Moravian 
College  and  Theological  Seminary. 

II.  That  this  pledge  eonsist  in  the  public  answer  to  a  4 
series  of  (pn-stions  <ni  points  ut  Christian  doctrine  and  dis- 
cipline,   i  J(mvnal.  1867.  pp.  95.  102.) 

Prayer  Day  for  the  tieminary. 

That  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  be  instiueted  to  5 
appoint  a  day  annually  when,  in  all  oui-  congregations, 
special  prayers  aic  to  he  dlfci  ed  to  the  Great  Head  of  the 
Church  for  tlie  ( 'ulle;:e  and  Theological  Seminary,  i.loui- 
nal,  1870.  pp.  (J<i.  (17. 

Anmnxl  Collect io)}. 

1.  That  the  Trustees  and  President  be  anthorized  to  in  <; 
stitute  an  annual  collection  in  aid  of  the  College  and  Semi 
nary,  and  to  designate  the  time  for  the  same.     1  Journal. 
1870,  p.  69.) 

TI.  That  this  Synod  acknowledge  with  gratitude  the  7 
eft'orts  made  hy  tlie  President.  Trnstees  and  Eacnlty  of  the 
Moravian  College  and  Theological  Seminary  to  increase  the 
revenues  of  the  same,  and  that  they  l)e  re(piestcd  to  continue 
thesame;  and  that  e(ingi  »-gations  and  individuals,  and  espe 
cially  wealthy  cnnn  i  t-o;,!  ions  and  wealthy  individuals,  be  in- 
vited to  i-espond  liberally  to  their  appeals  in  behalf  of  the 


;>»; 

suiiport  of  this  most  important  institution  of  our  Province. 
(Journal.  ISGS,  pp.  <)5.  120,  121.) 
1  III.  That  the  memliers  of  our  Church  in  this  Province 
be  earnestly  re<iuestc(l  to  increase  theii-  gifts  for  the  Theo- 
logical Seminary,  so  that  the  amount  annnallj"  gathered  may 
reach  at  least  three  thousand  dollars  (13.000).  (Journal. 
1878,  pp.  157.  158.) 

Connection  leith  Nazareth  Rail. 

1*  1.  That  the  Piovincial  Elders"  Conference,  the  Presi- 
dent of  the  Theological  Seminary,  and  the  Principal  of 
Nazareth  Hall,  in  conjuiietion  devise  apian  for  an  organic 
connection  between  Nazareth  Hall  and  the  Theological 
Seminary,  and  carry  out  the  same  as  soon  as  practicable. 

3  II.  Tliat  in  carrying  out  such  a  plan.  Nazareth  Hall  shall 
be  pennitted  to  apply  so  much  ot  its  profits  as  it  may, 
without  diminishing  its  annual  contiibnt ion  to  the  Susteu- 
tation  Fund,  towards  tiic  support  of  such  of  its  students  as 
may  have  entered  m  itli  a  view  to  prei)ai'ing  for  the  Theo- 
logical Seminary. 

4  HI.  That  the  Theological  Seminary  be  placed  on  the 
same  footing,  as  j-egards  its  relations  to  the  Provincial 
Elders'  Conference,  as  the  other  educational  institutions  of 
the  Pr()\  ince. 

o  IV.  That  all  legislation  of  previous  Synods  conflicting 
with  these  ves(»luti()ns  be  hereby  rescinded.  (Journal, 
IST;}.  p.  77.) 

Use  of  Tobacco. 

O  Tliat  this  Provincial  Synod  discountenances  the  use  of 
tohaecd  \  \\  \  students  of  our  Theological  Seminary.  (Jour- 
nal. 1N7.S.'  p.  141. ) 

Independent  Financial  Existence. 

7  1.  That  the  Synod  hereby  expresses  its  grateful  appre- 
ciation (d'tlie  |n-ni)(is;il  made  by  the  Professors  of  the  Theo- 
logical Se)ninai\  :  ■•That.  loi- t  he  I  ime  tieing,  all  aid  from 
the  Sustenlation  I'nnd  toward  t  he  exi)enses  of  the  Seminary 
be  ent  oil'."' — and  that  tliis  pi'oposal  accepted,  provided, 
that  the  educational  interests  oC  t  he  Seminary  will  not  sufier 
thereby.    (Journal,  ISSl.  pj).  ,52,  53,  77.) 

8  II.  That  under  existing  circumstances,  Synod  approves 
the  action  of  the  Trustees  of  the  Theological  Seminary,  in 
instituting  the  vacation  of  four  f 4)  months.  (Journal,  1881, 
pp.  .53,  77.) 


37 


III.  That  no  clotliing  expenses  be  paid  by  the  Trustees  1 
of  the  Tlieological  Seminary.    (Journal,  1881.  pp.  72,  77.) 

IV.  That  \vc  gratefully  recognize  the  ability  and  self-  2 
sacrificing-  faithfulness  with  which  the  Faculty  have  con- 
ducted the  Theological  Seminary  since  last  Synod  and  r<'- 
oommend  that  the  institution  be  continued  on  the  present 
independent  financial  basis.    (Journal.  1884,  p.  38.) 

V.  That  we  earnestly  recommend  to  our  ministers  and  ;i 
congregations  to  use  greater  efforts  to  induce  suitable  young 
men  to  entei-  our  Theological  Seminary  to  study  for  the 
Gospel  ministry  of  the  Moravian  Churcii.    ,  Jcmrnal.  1SS4. 

p.  39.  > 

VI.  That  we  leconimend  the  Trustees  and  Faculty  to  4 
present  the  caiuse  of  the  Theological  Seminary  to  the  con- 
gregations of  our  Church  in  person,  whenever  ])racticable. 
(Journal,  1884.  ])p.  38,  39.) 

A^ll.  That  for  the  information  of  prospective  students  we  r, 
recommend  the  insertion  in  the  annual  circular  issued  to  the 
churches,  an  estimate  of  the  yearly  personal  ex])enses  to  a 
student.    .  Jonrnal.  1884,  pp.'38.  39.) 

VIII.  That  congregations  and  individuals  be  urged  to  « 
make  themselves  resi)onsible  for  the  perscuial  expenses  of 
such  students  as  actually  re«iuire  assistance,  without  in  any 
wav  decreasing  their  contributions  to  the  general  expense 
of  the  Seminary.    ■  Jouriuil.  1884.  pp.  38.  ,39.) 

IX.  That,  recognizing   the  liberality  of  the  churches  7 
toward  the  Theological  Seminary  since  last  Synod,  we  urge 
yet  more  earnest  efforts  for  the  financial  and  spiritiial  sup- 
port of  this  institution.    (Journal,  1884.  pp.  38.  39.) 

An  Act  to  Incorporate  the  Moravian  College  and  Theolo<iical  Semi- 
nary, at  Bethlehem,  Pa. 

Whekkas,  The  (.'hurch  of  the  United  Brethren,  i commonly  called  8 
Moravians),  had,  for  a  long  time,  a  collesiiate  and  theolosrifal  institute 
connected  with  the  boardinii-school  at  Nazareth,  but  in  ihc  year  one 
thousand  eight  hundred  and  filiy-eisrht  removed  the  s:nne  to  ilic  lioi- 
ough  of  Bethlehem,  and  established  in  tlie  said  Ijoiduuh  a  Colieue  loi 
the  education  of  male  persons  in  the  various  branches  of  science,  lit- 
erature, and  the  ancient  and  modern  languages,  as  likewise  a  depart- 
ment of  the  same  for  the  training  and  preparing  of  young  men  for  the 
Gospel  ministrj- ; 

And  Whereas.  It  is  deemed  by  the  authorities  of  said  Church,  to  9 
be  advisable  and  necessary  for  the  more  convenient  management  of 
the  concerns  of  said  College,  to  have  said  College  incorporated; 

Therefore, 

Sec.  I.— Be  it  enacted  by  the  Senate  and  House  of  Representatives  lO 
of  the  Commonwealth  of  Pennsylvania,  in  General  Assembly  met,  and 
it  is  hereby  enacted  by  the  autiiority  of  the  same 


1  Thai  the  Risihi  Rcx  i  reiid  John  Christian  Jacobson,  Bishop,  and  the 
Reverend  Francis  l'l<u('iilinc  Haucn,  and  the  Reverend  Sylvester 
Wolle,  all  of  lh<'  IhhhiiuIi  .>r  lU'thichcm,  duly  elected  by  the  Synod 
of  tho  Xoiihcni  l>isii  i<  t  ,.|  ilic  Anicrican  Province  of  the  United 
IJi-clhrun.  a  lioard  ut  I )i i-ci  tois  nl'  ihe  eccU'siastical  affairs  of  said 
Cliui-.-li  in  said  DisI  i  ic(,  and  likewise  constitntcrd  by  virtue  of  their 
oilier,  ilic  r.oard  oT  'ri  iistecs  ol'  >aid  Colleiic,  and  such  other  persons 
asni  iN  li(  ir;i Her      a|i|Miiiiti'(l  i lici r  associal cs  or  successors,  accord- 

ini;  I. Mhr  lilies  ,ind  n-ulni  .s..lv:,id  l,ran<-li  of  the  Ohurch  of  the 

United  Kreiliieii.  Im  and  iln  \  a  ic  I  le  lel  >\  eoi  isi  it  uted  a  body  Corporate 
and  iMililic  ,  in  taei  and  in  la\\'.  I  ly  I  lie  i  la  n  le  a  r.d  style  of  "The  Moravian 

Oolle-c  and  'nie(.lo-i.al  Siininaiv.  and  that  name  shall  be  capable 
of  perpetual  s lu-eessioii ,  nia\  ~<ni'aiiil  lie  sued,  may  have  and  use  a 
eonunon  seal,  and  alter  and  Vliaiiuc  tlie  natne  at  pleasure,  and  shaU 
also  lie  capaMe  to  areepi  and  lakr.  i,\  d.'\ ise.  L^-ant,  bargain,  sale  or 
otlii'iw  ise,  an\  i  -.lai,..  ,,r  pi,,p(  ri\  ,  rral  p(  r^onal,  and'the  same  to 
liold  and  eiijox  ,  or  I"  ^.11  and  .  on\  i  \  .  I.  a-M',  mi  mortgage,  as  fully  and 
ahsoliilely.  in  all  res  pe-a--.  as  a  1 1  \  iialiiial  prr-on  niightdo.  Provided, 
how  e\  er.  'I'hal  the  elear  annual  iie  ome  ..1  t  In  -  estate  and  pr01)erties  Of 
said  ('or|)oralion.  exelii>i\<' of  an\  lands  or  tenements  that  may  be 
ocenpieil  said  I  'ollcie  for  its  .ireoiniuodal  ioiis,  or  that  of  its  officers 
or  professius.  and  e\eliisi\  e  of  ineome  from  students,  shall  not  exceed 
the  sum  (d'  Ten  Tlionsand  Hollars. 

li  Si;r.  11.  Tliai  tln>  Tr i isi ees  a li  eady  ai>pointed,  or  who  shall  here- 
atfer  lie  appoinieil  in  aeeordaiwe  w  ith  the  fundamental  Statutes  which 
UOx  iM  ii  the  Cliiirc  li  of  the  rniled  brethren  in  said  Northern  Province 
of  the  I'niteil  States  ol  .Vinei  ii  .a,  shall  haxc  the  eare  and  management 
of  said  rolleij,c.  and  of  its  est  at  es  and  properties,  and  shall  liave  power 
to  make  all  needful  1 1\  -  la  \\  s  .a  nd  icuii  iat  ions  for  the  appointment  of 
coiTipetent  professors'aiiil  lea.  hei  s,  for  t lie  Ii  .\ i ng  and  payment  of  all 
salaries,  foi  tin-  lixiim  of  priees  of  hoard  and  tuition  of.students,  for 
the  studies  and  exereises  of  the  stinleiits,  and  for  the  general  well- 
being  of  said  <'olle-e.  ri:,rHlr,l.  'nial  lliesaid  statutes,  by-laws  and 
regulations  sha  1 1  not  I  le  i  i  leoiisist  lait  with  the  Constitution  and  laws 
f>f  this  (  ommonwealt  li,  or  of  the  C  niled  Slates,  or  the  enactments  of 
theSynod  of  sai<l  Chiireli  (d  \Ur  I  iiiied  llrethren. 

Skc.  hi.— That  nomisnmnii.  or  m  isd  I  reetion  of  the  said  Corpora- 
tion, in  any  will,  ileed.  grant,  oidile  i  instrument  of  writing,  shall 
vitiate  or  defeat  tlies,ime,  hiii  thai  the  same  shall  take  effect  in  the 
same  manner  as  if  said  I'ornoraiion  were  rightly  named  therein. 
Prori'hd .  Tiiai  it  is  sn liieien 1 1  \- deseri I leil  to  ascertain  the  intention 

of  the  parties. 

4  Si:(  .  I  \'.  That  the  Trustees,  in  connection  with  the  Faculty  of  the 
College,  sli,ill  have  power  to  grant  and  confer  such  degrees  in  the 
libeial  arts  and  sciences,  or  such  branches  thereof,  to  such  students 
of  the  College,  or  others,  as  from  their  prolieieney  in  learning  they 
may  decern  justly  laitilled  to  sneh  honors,  and  sneh  as  are  usually 
granted  by  institutions  of  ;i  similar  kind,  and  to  grant  diplomas  or 
••ortiticates  under  their  common  seal,  as  may  authenticate  and  per- 
j)etuate  the  memory  of  siuth  graduation, 

JOHN  CESSNA, 
Sfti  aki'i-  of  the  House  of  Representatives. 

a.  V.  LAWRENCE,- 
tSpeakcr  of  the  Senate. 
Approved,  The  third  day  of  April.  .\nno  Domini  one  thousand 
eight  hundred  and  sixtv-three, 

A.  G.  CURTIN. 


39 


5;  58.  2.    Seininwifs  entitled  to  Official  Publications. 

Each  of  the  Theological  Seminaries  of  the  Unity  shall  be  1 
^■^titled  (without  expense)  to  one  copy  of  all  official  pub- 
lications in  the  several  Provinces.    (Synodal  E*'sults.  1879. 
p.  163.) 

Private  Preparation  for  the  yHuistn/. 

I.  That  this  Synod  instructs  the  E'rovincial  Elders"  Con-  2 
ference,  in  conjuncti<ni  with  the  Pi  esident  and  Faculty  of 
the  Theological  Seminary,  to  arrange  a  fonr  years'  course 
of  study  or  reading  suitable  for  men  desirous  of  entering 
the  ministry  of  the  Church,  whose  means  and  circumstances 
do  not  permit  them  to  ac<|uire  the  necessary  education  ex- 
cept by  private  effort. 

II.  That  an  Examining  Committee  be  appointed  by  Dis-  3 
trict  Synods  to  examine  such  candidates  previous  to  the 
convening  of  such  Synod  and  report  their  progress  to  the 
Provincial  Board. 

III.  That  such  men.  if  in  the  judgment  of  the  ProA-in-  4 
cial  Elders'  Conference  they  prove  suitable  candidates  for 
the  ministry,  be  licensed  to  preach  during  the  time  of  their 
preparation,  but  under  no  circumstances  ordained  until 
they  have  successfully  completed  their  coui  se  and  passed 
the  required  examination.    (Journal,  187<).  ])p.  Sf>.  87.^ 

COURSE  OF  i^TCDY. 

[N.  B. — Those  who  wish  to  pursue  this  Course  of  Study,  must  he 
well  acquainted  with  the  (tomnion  English  branches.] 

FIRST  yj:ar. 

A.  — JULY  TO  DECEMBER. 

1.  Rhetoric,  (Day's). 

2.  Ancient  History,  Oriental  Nations,  fRawlinson's  Ancient  His- 
tory). 

3.  History  of  the  People  of  Israel,  up  to  the  time  of  David,  {Mill- 
man ;  read  Stanley). 

4.  Geography  of  the  Bible,  (Coleman). 

Write  an  essay  on  some  subject  taken  from  the  History  of  Israel. 

B.  — JANUARY  TO  JULY. 

1.  Rhetoric,  (Day's). 

2.  Ancient   History,  Greeks  and  Romans,  (Smith's  ^Greece  and 
Rome). 

3.  History  of  the  People  of  Israel,  to  the  destruction  of  Jerusalem. 
A.  D.  70,  (Millman  ;  read  Stanley). 

i.  Psycholog}',  (Day's;  read  Haven  s  Mental  Philosophy  i. 
F.s.my  on  .^orne  .<tvbjrcf  taken  from  the  History  of  Israel. 


40 


SECOND  YEAR. 

A.— .TUTiY  TO  DECEMBEB. 

1.  Logic, (read  Jevon's  Logi(0;  .Science Primer  Logic,  (read  Whately  ,). 

2.  Moravian  History,  Anfaent  Church ;  (Moravian  Manual ;  Holmes' 
or  Bost's). 

3.  Introduction  to  books  of  Xew  Testament.  (Home's  Introduc- 
tion). 

4.  Homiletics,  (Hoppin's;  read  Broad  us). 

Essay  on  .some  suhject  taken  from  Moravian  Histoi-i/. 

K.  -.lANl'ARY  TO  .ItllA-. 

1.  Moravian  Histor\.  Ronoweil  Churcii  ;  (Moravian  Manual; 
Holmes' or  Bost's;  icaii  .lackson's  'Praiislation  of  Sjiangenberg's  Life 
of  Zii'zendorf,  mid  Life  and  Times  of  Zeisberger). 

■2.  Tntrodnctioii  to  Xew  Testament,  (Home's). 

■i.  Exemlical  Study  of  the  first  three  Gospels,  (Comprehensive 
CommeiUaiN  ;  read  Barnes'). 
4.  Ilomiletics,  (  Hoppin's). 
A  Written  ^Sermon. 

THIRD  YEAR. 

A.— .TULY  TO  DECEMBER. 

1.  Church  History,  to  the  time  of  the  Reformation,  i  Kurtz's  Man- 
ual ;  read  Schaff ). 

2.  Introduction  to  Old  Testament,  (Home's). 

3.  Exi'ucli-d  siud\  :  <Mii('sis,  ( Comi)rehensive  Commentarv  ;  read 
Bnsli's  Notes.  , 

4.  Moral  .Science.  (\Va  viand,  or  Haven,  or  Hopkin's  Law  of  Love). 

A  Writteti  iScriiioii.. ' 

B.— .FAXUARY  TO  .lUI.Y. 

1.  r;iiurch  Histoiv.  from  time  of  Reformation.  (Kurtz's  Manual; 
read  D' Aubi-ne I. 

2.  ititrcxbictiou  to  old  'I'cstauicut,  (Home's). 

lOxc-ictii  al  Siud\-:  llpistUMo  the  Romans,  lComprehen.sive  Com- 
meiit,ar\'  ;  read  I  lames'  i. 
4.  i:xeu(  tical  Stuiis  ;  I'roidiet  Isaiah,  (same  as  above). 

.1  /(  ( .s.v7((/  nil  si'iiir  jiiissnf/e  of  Scripture  rvhich  is  explained  in  dif- 
fiTfiil  wai/K. 

FOURTH  YEAR. 

A.  — .lUT.V  TO  DErEMBEll. 

I.  Doffinatics;  Tlicolou \  aud  Anlhro|)olon\-.  i  \":im  oosterzce's ;  read 
"Wliy  I  aiu  a  .Moraviau,"  aud  Spau-cul .cm  v  |dc:,  l-'idei  Fratrum). 

'J.  I<;xeuetical  Sluil,\-;  Cospi'l  of  .lohu.  ( 'om  |  .rcliciisi  ve  Commen- 
lar\-  :  i-ead  Karnes' ). 

:;.  ICxeiict  ical  Study;  lOpistle  to  Epliesians  and  1  Thessidonians,  (as 

4.  Pastoral  1'heologv,  (Hoppin's). 

A  n  cfistif/  on  (he  Ditfirx  of  the  Mitiistri/. 

B.  -.I.\NTJARY  TO  JUI>V. 

1.  Doiiiuai  ics ;  Soieriology  and  Eschatology.  (Van  Oosterzee's ; 
couipai-e  .Moi  :i\  iaii  ( 'alecliism  and  Spangenberg). 

i  ;\ c-ci  ic:d  Si  iidy  ;  Jeremiah  or  some  Minor  Prophet,  (Compre- 
hensive *  'oinuieiilaiy). 

3.  ExcLictical  Study;  1  Epistle  of  .John  aixl  Fyjiistle  of  .James,  (as 
above). 

4.  Pastoral  Theology,  (Hoppin's). 

An  essai/  on  a  siil))ect  taken  from  Dof/matirfi. 


41 


CHAPTER  TX. 
THE  mXISTRY.   AX])  ORDINATION  TO  THE  MINISTRY. 

§  62.  1 .     The  Frcsbyterate. 

With  younp;  brethren  it  is  advisable  to  defer  tliis  ordina-  1 
tion  [to  the  Presb;^-terate]  for  one  or  two  yeai-s.  in  order 
that  they  may  j>ive  i)roof  of  theii'  ((ualifications  for  the 
oflBce  ;  otherwise  it  should  take  as  soon  as  possible 

after  entering  thereon,  and.  if  practic  abk-.  in  the  eongrega 
tion  to  the  service  of  which  thev  are  appointed.  (Synodal 
Results.  1857.  §  34. ; 

§  64.    Rule  for  the  Nomination  of  Bislwps. 

That  in  the  nomination  of  Bishops  by  the  Provincial  2 
Synod,  as  provided  for  in  the  Constitution,  the  choice  of 
the  Synod  shall  be  exi)r('ss('d  l)y  ballot,  and  two-thirds  of 
all  the  votes  of  members  present  shall  be  i'e(juired  for  a 
nomination,    ijouiual.  1858,  pp.  68.  73.) 

!;  64.    Assistants  to  be  ordained  Deacom. 

That  all  assistants  in  preaching  the  Gospel  and  adminis-  3 
tering  the  Sacraments  be  ordained   Deacons.  (Journal. 
1864.  pp.  74.  76,  77.  i 

;j  64.    Suspension  from  the  Ministry. 

That  it  sliall  be  the  duty  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Con-  4 
ference,  when  a  minister  or  missionai-y  is  convicted  of  seri- 
ous moral  delinquency,  to  declare  him  susiiendcd  from  the 
discharge  of  ministei-ial  functions,  and  ijublish  the  fact  in 
our  Church-i)apers.    i  Journal.  1881,  pp.  99.  100.) 

5;  64.    ;  Note. )    (Questions  ai  Ordinations. 

That  at  his  ordination  as  Deacon  or  Presbyter,  every  5 
minister  be  re(|uired  to  declare  publicly,  at  (he  administra- 
tion of  the  rite,  his  belief  in  the  Holy  sVri])t  11  u  s  as  the  onlj- 
rule  of  faith  and  conduct,  and  his  adht  rcnce  lo  the  rules 
and  regulatio]Js  of  the  Moravian  Church.  Joui  nal.  1861. 
p.  67:  1864.  p.  51.  ) 

()5,  I.  Acoiidhs. 

That  it  be  recommended,  accoiding  to  the  provision  of  6 
the  (ieneral  Synod,  that  tliose  brethren  who  have  given  evi- 


42 


dence  of  their  ability  and  willingness  to  serve  the  Lord  in 
the  Brethren's  T'nity,  either  as  instructors  of  youth,  or  in 
other  oftiees  of  the  Cluu  ch.  such  as  the  office  of  iBlders. 
who,  with  the  consent  of  the  Provincial  Eldei  s"  roiiference. 
have  been  appointed  assistants  to  the  niinislers  in  the  spir- 
itual care  of  the  Cliurch  and  at  the  adniinisti  ation  of  the 
Lord's  Sui)per,  be  received  as  Acoluths.  (Journal.  1864. 
pp.  74,  76,  77.) 


CHAPTER  X. 

THE  COXSTITUTION  OF  THE  BRETHREN'S  I'NITY. 

•  EiKleavoi  iiiu  to  ko'cp  tlio  unity  of  the  Spirit  in  the  bond  of  peace. 
Tliere  is  one  liodvand  out'  Spirit,  even  as  ve  are  called  in  one  hope  of 
your  caHiii';-.  -  -lOph.  4  :  3,  4. 

"For  li\  line  Spirit  are  we  all  baptized  into  one  body,  whethei-  we 
be  Jews  (II  <  M  ill  ilcs,  bond  or  free;  and  have  all  been  liiiide  to  drink 
into  one  Spirii.  -1  Cor.  12:  13. 

fntroductmn. 

1  The  Synod  anew  expressed  its  conviction  that  the  govern- 
ment of  the  Brethren's  Unity  can  rest  solely  in  the  hands 
of  our  Saviour,  as  the  invisible  Head  of  His  Church  on 
earth,  and  also  that  we  desire  to  know  nothing  of  any  other 
supreme  control.  But,  although  the  Lord  Himself  directs, 
protects,  and  rules  His  Church  in  general,  yet  He  also  makes 
use  of  the  feeble  hands  of  His  servants  as  instruments  for 
its  govej'nment .  and  places  w  :i\  chmen  upon  its  walls,  in  order 
that  Jerusalem  may  be  built.  In  like  manner,  our  Breth- 
ren's Church  can  not  dispense  with  .sitch  government  and  su- 
perintendence, if  all  things  are  to  exist  in  that  order  and  to 
take  that  course  which  He  has  pointed  out  to  us  in  His 
Word. 

How  this  is  to  be  effected  is  determined  by  the  Constitu- 
tion of  the  Brethren's  Unity  as  follows  : 

General  Fundamental  Characteristics  of  the  Constitution. 

2  1.  The  Brethren's  Unity,  in  its  entirety,  comprises  the 
three  Provinces  of  the  Unity — the  German,  the  British,  and 


43 


the  American— together  with  the  entire  field  occupied  by 
as,  in  all  parts  of  the  w  orld,  in  labors  tor  the  kingdom  of 
God". 

2.  The  supieme  govenuiient  for  the  whole  Brethren's  1 
TTnity  rests  in  the  hands  of  the  General  Synods,  which  are 
composed  of  the  servants  of  the-  T'nity,  the  delegates  of  the 
Provinces  of  the  Unity,  and  the  uiissionaT  ies  who  are  called 
to  it.    (See  5;  (>9.  ■ 

3.  From  on*-  (Tcneral  Synod  to  the  next  following  the  2 
government  and  sui>ervision  of  the  whole  Brethren's  Unity 
are  committed  to  a  Board,  elected  for  the  purpose,  named 
the  Unity's  Elders"  Conference  or  Directing  Board  of  the 
Protestant  BretUieu's  Unity.  For  the  English  Province 
and  the  American  Province,  howevei,  the  Depiutiiieiit  of 
the  Unity  of  the  Unity's  Eldei-s"  Conference  alone  forms  the 
ruling  authority,    i  See    7(>.  i 

4.  The  supreme  difection  of  all  afiairs  of  the  several  Pro  3 
vinces  of  the  T'^nity  devolves  on  the  respective  Fromncial 
Synods,  which  are  composed  of  ministers  and  delegates  of 
the  Province,    i  See  ^  79. 

5.  The  membei-s  of  the  icspective  Provincial  Syjiods  of  4 
the  British  and  Xoi  th  American  Pro\  iuces  elect  the  respec 
tive  Provincial  Eldeis'  Conferences,  whose  duty  it  is  to  ad- 
minister the  special  government  of  their  Provinces,  during 
the  period  determined  by  the  Provincial  Synods.  (See  ^ 
82.  >  The  American  Province  is,  for  the  present,  divided 
into  two  districts,  each  having  a  separate  Provincial 
Synod  and  Proviiu-ial  Elders"  Confo-ence  :  but  the  right  of 
these  two  disti  icts  to  unite,  i-emains  unimpaired. 

«.  Foi-  the  C.einian  Province  the  Unity's  Elder.s"  Confer-  o 
ence  is  at  the  same  tinu-  the  Pi  ovincial  Elder.s'  Conference. 

7.  Tlie  govei'iunent  of  the  individual  congregations  de-  <» 
volves  on  the  Congregation  Conferences,  which  are  organized 
in  ditterent  ways  in  the  several  Provinces  of  the  Unity. 
(See  §.")(>.)  Undertakings,  the  eventual  responsibility  for 
which  attaches  to  a  congregation,  always,  on  that  ac('ount. 
require  the  consent  of  the  congregation  authorities.  Par 


44 


ticulars  regarding  Congregation  Conferences  are  to  be  found 
in  the  Synodal  Eesnlts  of  the  several  Provinces. 

1  S.  The  above  is  based  on  the  fundamental  principle  of 
our  Constitution — namely,  tliat  no  other  Church-govern- 
ment exists  among  us  than  that  which  is  conferential.  (Syn- 
odal Results.  1879,  5^66.) 

A.    General  Synods. 
The  Work  of  General  Synoda. 

2  1.  The  ministers  aud  delegates  of  the  Brethren's  Unity  in 
Synod  assembled  are  its  plenipotentiaries,  represent  the 
entire  Brethren's  Unity,  and  act  in  its  name.  Consequently, 
consultation  on  and  control  of  its  general  aiiairs  necessaiily 
i-ests  with  the  Synods. 

ii  2.  The  principles  wliich  sei  ve  as  the  basis  of  the  Breth- 
ren's Unity,  and  as  a  rule  for  its  ministers  aud  members, 
are,  so  far  as  their  continued  va  lidity  is  concerned,  carefully 
examined,  amended,  and  re-aitirmed,  aud  such  arrange- 
ments are  made  as  are  lequired  for  the  welfare  and  by  the 
destination  of  our  Unity  of  Brethren,  as  a  whole. 

4  3.  Further,  one  of  the  most  important  objects  of  the  Gen- 
eral Synods  is  the  promotion  of  mutual  acquaintance  and 
interchange  of  views  and  experiences.  (Synodal  Results, 
1879.  §  67. ) 

Powers  of  General  Synods. 

5  According  to  this  statement  of  the  work  of  General 
Synods,  thcii-  duties  and  business  are  the  following  : 

a.  To  (IHcniiiiic  tlie  doctiinc  of  the  Church — i.  e.,  to  de- 
cide all  (jiiesl  ions  which  nuiy  possibly  arise  in  reference  to 
doctrine. 

b.  To  determine  the  fundamental  features  of  the  liturgy. 

c.  To  determine  the  fundamental  featur(;s  of  Church- 
order  and  discipline. 

d.  To  determine  what  is  essential  to'  membership  in  the 
Brethren's  Chuich. 


45 

e.  To  elect  Bishops  and  provide  lor  their  consecration. 

/.  To  supervise  the  Missions  to  the  heathen  and  other 
jfeueral  enterprises  of  the  Unity,  as  also  to  establish  prin 
ciples  for  the  direction  of  the  same. 

g.  To  superintend  the  Unity's  finances  and  their  admin- 
istration. 

h.  To  elect  the  Department  of  the  Unity  and  the  Depart 
ment  of  Missions  of  the  Unity's  Elders'  Conference,  accord 
ing  to  §  78.  and  the  directions  given  for  the  supply  of 
vacancies  in  those  two  Departments. 

/.  To  settle  the  principles  according  to  which  the  General 
Synods  are  formed  and  constituted.  a~s  also  to  tix  the  time 
and  place  of  their  meeting  and  the  basis  of  representation 
at  them. 

Ic.  To  determine  everything  that  has  reference  to  the 
general  Constitution  of  the  Brethren's  Unity  and  its 
Church-rules. 

I.  To  subject  the  ena(;tments  of  the  Piovincial  Synods  to 
examination  and  revision  as  often  as  it  shall  appear  neces- 
sary, and.  in  case  a  Provincial  Synod  has  arrived  at  some 
determination  which  is  contrary  to  the  principles  or  the 
Constitution  of  the  Unity  of  the  Brethren,  to  refer  it  back 
to  the  said  Synod  for  alteration. 

m.  As  the  highest  Board  of  Appeal,  to  give  the  last  and 
finally-binding  decision  on  all  questions  that  may  be  laid 
before  it. 

II.  To  require  an  account  of  the  way  in  which  general 
principles  of  doctrine  and  of  practice  have  been  acted  up 
to  in  the  several  Provinces.    (Synodal  Eesults.  1879.  §  G8.  i 

Members  of  a  General  Synod. 
1.  The  following  are  members  of  a  General  Synod  : 

I.    By  Virtue  of  their  Office.  1 

1.  The  members  of  the  Unity's  Elders'  Conference. 
(^See  below.; 


46 


2.  The  Bishops  of  the  Brethren's  Church. 

3.  One  member  of  eaeh  Provincial  Eldeis"  Conference, 
to  be  appointed  by  such  C-onference. 

4.  The  following  brethren,  holding  T'nity's  otftces  : 
((.  The  Secretarius  Tnitatis  Fratruni  in  Anglia. 

b.  The  Secretary  of  Missions  in  London. 

c.  The  Director  of  the  Financial  Office  of  the  Tuity't- 
Department  of  Missions. 

d.  The  Archivist  of  the  Unity. 

1  II.     The  Delegates  of  the  se/rrral  Frovincex. 

Nine  from  each  Province,  (  in  the  Xorth  American  Pro- 
vince seven  from  the  Northei'n  District  and  two  from  the 
Southern).  All  of  them  must  be  accredited  as  delegates 
in  the  manner  legally  valid  in  the  respective  countries, 
with  due  regard  to  what  is  needed  to  render  the  certificates 
valid  in  foreign  countries. 

2  III-    Missionarws  to  he  called  by  the  Unity\s  Elden 

Conference. 

In  extending  to  missionaries  the  call  to  be  voting  mem 
bers  of  a  General  Synod,  the  circumstan(^es  of  the  various 
mission-fields,  and  the  wishes  of  the  missionaries,  are  to  be 
as  fai'  as  possible  taken  into  consideration,  the  latter  by 
means  of  confidential  votes  from  the  individual  mission- 
aries. The  number  to  be  thus  called  is  not  to  be  less  than 
four  or  moi  e  than  six ;  but  Bishops  from  the  mission- 
provinces  who  are  in  attendance  may  be  included  in  this 
number. 

3  One  of  the  ministers  employed  in  the  Bohemian  and 
Moravian  work  must  also  be  called  to  the  General  Synod, 
as  a  voting  membei',  by  the  Unity's  Elders"  Conference. 

4  2.  Besides  these  voting  members  of  a  Synod,  the  Unity's 
Elders'  Conference  may  call  to  a  Synod  one  oi-  another 
brother  whose  presence  appears  to  them  desirable,  as  aii  ad- 
visory member  without  vote.  The  Synod  is  not  at  liberty 
to  confer  on  these  advisory  members  the  right  of  voting. 


47 


\\  ithout  previously  altering  the  provisions  of  the  Oonstitu 
tion  on  the  subject.    .Synodal  Results.  1879.  ^  69.) 

Election  of  Delegates  to  a  General  Synod. 

1 .  In  re<;ard  to  the  eligibility  of  delegates  to  a  General  1 
.Synod  the  following  rules  are  in  force  :  All  brethren  are 
eligible  who  have  for  two  years  been  members  of  the 
Church,  are  communicants,  and  have  passed  the  twenty 
fourth  year  of  their  age  on  the  day  of  election. 

2.  The  delegates  to  the  General  Synod  are  representa-  2 
tives  of  the  Provinces,  and  not  of  individual  congi  egations. 
and  are  conse([Uently  elected  by  the  Provincial  Synods,  and 
not  immediately  by  the  congregations. 

3.  Definite  arrangements  for  this  election  are  made  in  s 
each  Province  of  the  Unity  by  tlie  Provincial  Sjniods. 
Each  Province  may  elect  an  alternate  for  each  of  its  dele- 
gates. 

4.  The  Provincial  Synods  must  determine  in  what  cases  4 
the  alternates  elected  by  them  shall  take  the  place  of  the 
delegates,  and  furnish  the  delegates  with  the  necessary 
authority  to  call  on  the  alternates.     (Synodal  Results. 
1879.  §  70. ) 

Preparations  for  a  General  Synod. 

Before  every  General  Synod  preparatory  Provincial  5 
Synods  must  be  held  in  all  the  three  Provinces  of  the  Unity, 
in  order  that  each  Province  may  arrive  at  agreemeut  as  to 
memorials,  and  the  proposals  therein  contained,  on  subjects 
appertaining  to  a  General  Synod,  and  that  such  subjects, 
as  adopted  by  the  Provincial  Synod,  may  be  brought 
forward  by  its  delegates.  It  is  therefore  also  the  propei- 
course  that  memorials  of  this  kind  should  first  of  all  be 
laid  before  the  Provincial  Synod.  Yet  every  member  of 
the  Church  is  at  libeity  to  address  the  General  Synod 
directly  in  a  memorial.  It  is,  however,  to  be  understood 
that  such  memorials  alone  can  meet  with  the  desired  atten- 
tion as  bear  on  subjects  within  the  scope  of  the  duties  of  a 


4S 

General  Synod,  and  are  not  of  a  purely  provincial  char- 
acter. It  is  also  requisite  that  they  bear  the  names  of  the 
writers.    (Synodal  Results.  1S79.  ?;  71.) 

Rnlen  of  Procedure  (it  a  General  Si/nod. 

1  As  regaids  t  he  procedure  to  be  observed  in  the  transac- 
tions of  eai  li  Synod,  while  other  refiulations  are  left  to  the 
discretion  ol'  each  Synod,  tlie  following  have  a  permanent 
validity  until  they  have  been  e.xpi  essly  altered  by  a  synodal 
resolution  : 

2  a.  All  the  members  of  a  Synod  have  an  equal  rij?ht  of 
\  otino-.  A  majority  of  votes  usually  decides,  yet  the  Synod 
reserx  es  to  itself  the  ri^ht  in  any  case,  when  freedom  to  do 
so  is  l)est(>wed  on  it,  to 'commit  the  final  decision  to  the 
Lord  by  I  be  Lot. 

:i  b.  Eesdlutions  which  involve  alterations  in  the  (Constitu- 
tion, require  a  majority  of  at  least  two  thiids  of  all  the 
\'otes. 

4  c.  Agreeably  to  the  brotherly  character'  of  our  union,  it 
can  not  be  intended  tliat  one  part  of  the  Brethreirs  lenity 
should  desire  to  force  on  anothei'  its  own  views,  and, 
tlirough  the  numerical  niajoi  ity  of  votes,  to  effect  changes, 
based  on  such  views,  in  the  existing  general  regulations  of 
oui'  (Constitution,  in  opposition  to  the  preponderating  con- 
viction of  the  repi  esentatives  of  such  portion  (»f  the  Unity. 
Theiefore  a  resolution  of  such  a  kind,  even  when  the 
majority  of  the  Synod  has  voted  in  its  favor,  can  not  be 
considered  as  biii(lin<i  on  the  entire  Unity,  in  case  a  de- 
cided protest  has  been  made  against  it  by  at  least  two-thirds 
of  the  representatives  or  delegates  of  any  one  Province, 
the  two  2forth  American  Districts  being  reckoned  as  a 
single  Province.  It  is  a  matter  f)f  course  that  in  this  lattei' 
regulation  neither  the  Uiiity's  Ehlers'  Conference  nor  the 
brethren  called  by  it  or  |)ii'scn1  e.c  officio — in  short,  none 
except  the  elected  delegates — are  taken  into  consideration. 

5  d.  The  Synod  is  opened  by  the  President  of  the  Unity's 
Elders'  Conference,  and  constitutes  itself  by  the  election  of 
its  President  and  other  officers. 


49 


e.  After  each  General  Synod  a  new  Synodal  Results  is  1 
compiled  according  to  the  directions  given  by  tlie  Synod, 
and  is  published  by  the  Unity's  Elders'  (OiiftM cncc.  It 
must  embody  the  re  affirmed  or  amended  rules  and  cimct- 
ments  of  the  previous  Synodal  Kesults,  togetlicr  w  itli  all 
new  determinations,  and  must  agree  with  the  otticial  Col- 
lection of  Eesoluti(ms,  whieli  is  coinijilcd  dm  inu  tlic  S>  nod. 
This  Synodal  Kesults  conse(infntly  conlains  tlic  (  ntii  r  body 
of  rules  and  enactments  wliicli  are  binding  on  the  whole 
Brethren's  Unity  iintil  the  next  (iencral  Synod,  it  is, 
however,  expressly  to  be  borne  in  mind  that  (hose  resolu- 
tions of  the  General  Synod  of  1857  which  icuuhite  tlie 
Constitution  of  the  several  Provinces  are  still  in  toiee.  as 
forming  the  legal  basis  of  all  the  ProA  iiieial  Constitutions, 
except  in  so  lai'  as  said  resolutions  have  undergone  formal 
alterations  in  such  a  way  as  is  in  accordance  with  the  Con- 
stitution.   (Synodal  Kesults,  1S79,  72.) 

The  German  Version  Decisive. 
In  all  cases  of  doubt  as  to  the  interpretation,  the  German  2 
original  is  decisive.    ( Resolnt  ions,  1S79,  p.  33,  8. ) 

Expenses  of  General  Synods  oik]  their  Defrayment. 
The  expenses  of  the  traveling  and  inaintenanee  of  all  the  3 
members  of  the  Synod  ai'e  deliayed  iVoni  the  Synodal  Fund, 
formed  for  the  ])uri)ose.  (See  S.l.  After  the  closing  of 
the  accounts  of  this  fund  a  summarized  statement  of  its  in- 
come and  expenditure  is  forwaided  to  the  Pro\incial 
Elders'  Conferences  for  commuiiicat  ion  to  the  eongi  egat  ions. 
(Synodal  Results,  1879,  §  73.) 

B.    The  Unity's  Elders'  Confekp:nce. 
The  Supreme  Administrative  Board  of  the  Unity. 
1.    From  each  (JeiuMal  Synod  to  the  next  following,  the  4 
oversight  and  go\ crnnuMit  of  the  Brethren's  Unity  in  all 
those  matters  which  fall  witliin  the  co]n])etcney  of  (ieneral 
Synods,  is  entrusted  to  a  lioard  elected  accoiding  to  the 
rules  laid  down  in  §  77 — namely,  the  I'liilys  J-.lders  Confer- 


50 


ence,  or  Direding  Board  of  the  Protestant  Brethren's  T^nity. 
This  Board  acts  in  the  name  of  and  in  eonnnission  from 
the  General  Synod,  and  is  responsible  to  it  for  all  its  acts. 
And  tt)  tliis  Hoard  all  other  ministers  and  conferences 
appointed  by  it  or  by  a  General  Synod  are  snbordinate  and 
responsible. 

1  2.  According  to  X\w  directions  foi-  the  election  of  the 
Unity's  Elders'  Coiit(  iciice.  oiven  in  §  77,  the  responsible 
snperinteudence  of  the  British  and  American  Provinces  of 
the  Unity  devolves,  liow ex ci'.  solely  on  the  Department  of 
the  Unity  of  the  t'nity"s  llldeis"  Conference.  In  order  to 
secure  for  the  acts  of  the  Unity's  Elders'  Conference  legal 
validity  in  relation  to  the  State,  a  legal  power  of  attorney 
mnst  be  drawn  up  l)y  the  Geneial  Synod,  by  which  the 
Unity's  Elders'  Coiileicnce  is  accredited  as  the  Directing 
Board  of  the  Protestant  Brethren's  Unity.  (Synodal 
Eesults,  1879,  74.) 

The  Organization  of  the  Unity'' s  Elders'  Conference. 

2  1.  In  the  Unity's  Eldei-s'  Conference  there  are  four 
Departments,  namely  : 

I.  The  Departnu'nt  of  the  Unity. 

II.  The  Department  of  Missions. 

III.  The  Department  of  Education  and  the  Pastoral 
Office. 

IV.  The  Department  of  Finance. 

3  I. )  The  Dei)ai  tment  of  the  Unity  consists  of  six  mem- 
bers, iianiely,  the  foni'  niendjers  of  the  Department  of  Mis- 
sions, and  one  inend)er  each  fi'om  the  Department  of 
Education  and  the  Pastoral  Office,  and  the  Department  of 
Finance.  The  scope  of  its  functions  comprises  the  affairs 
of  the  British  and  Aniei  icau  Provinces,  and  it  is  the  sole 
responsible  Board  of  Supei  iutendence  and  Appeal  for  said 
Provinces.    (See  §  76,  2,  below.) 

4  II,)  The  Dei)artment  of  Missions  consists  of  four  mem- 
bers, and  has  the  control  of  the  Mission  work  of  the  Unity. 

5  III.  )  The  Department  of  Education  and  the  Pastoral 
Office  consists  of  four  members,  has  the  oversight  of  the 


51 


Schools  and  Educational  concei  ns  of  the  German  Province, 
and,  at  the  same  time,  agreeably  to  its  name  and  its  com- 
position, takes  part  in  a  special  manner  in  those  general 
incumbencies  which  concern  the  German  Province. 

IV. )  The  Department  of  Finance  consists  of  four  mem-  1 
bers,  directs  the  secular  concerns  of  the  Geiman  Province, 
and  administers  the  T'nity's  finances. 

2.  The  whole  T'nity"s  l-^ldcrs"  Conference  is  at  the  same  2 
time  the  Provincial  Elders"  Conference  of  the  German 
Province,  and  is,  as  such,  divided  only  into  three  Depart- 
ments, namely  : 

I.  The  Department  of  Education  and  the  Pastoral  Office. 

II.  The  Department  of  Finance. 

III.  The  Department  of  Missions. 

3.  All  important  subjects,  even  those  which  belong  more 
immediately  to  the  individual  Departments — as,  for  ex- 
ample, appointments  to  office — are  settled  by  the  whole 
Unity's  Elders'  Conference,  with  the  exception  of  the  mat- 
ters referred  to  in  1.  I.  [abox  e]  which  Itcluiig  exclusively 
to  the  functions  of  the  Departniciit  of  tin-  I'liity. 

4.  The  Unity's  Elders'  ('(.nicicncc  elects  its  President  4 
and  Vice-Pj-esident  from  amongst  its  own  members,  irre- 
spectively of  the  Dei)artment  to  which  they  m-.iy  belong, 
and  announces  the  election  when  completed  t<>  the  I'rovin- 
cial  Elders'  Conferences  and  to  the  State  ant luirities  con- 
cerned. All  official  documents,  which  arc  to  l)c  laid  before 
the  latter  by  the  Unity's  Elders'  Contci  encc.  aie  to  be 
signed  by  the  President  or  Vice-Piesidcnt  ol  tlie  I'nity's 
Elders'  Conference. 

5.  Each  of  the  four  Departments  of  the  Unity's  Elders'  5 
Conference  elects  a  President  to  conduct  its  business. 
The  election  of  the  President  of  the  Depai tinciit  of  the 
Unity  is  to  be  announced  by  the  latter  to  the  British 
and  American  Provinces,  and  the  President  of  this 
Department  shall  sign  official  documents  addressed  to 
the  said  Provinces.  Official  documents  which  are  ad- 
dressed to  the  whole  Brethren's  Unity  shall  be  signed 


52 


either  by  all  the  members  of  the  Unity's  Elders'  Con- 
ference, or  by  tlie  Presidents  of  the  T^nity's  Elders'  Con- 
ference and  of  the  Department  of  the  Unity.  (Synodal 
Eesults,  1879,  §  75.) 

Bights  and  Duiics  of  tlic  TJnity\H  Elders'  Conference. 

1  1.  The  I'ights  and  (hities  of  the  Unity's  Elders'  Confer- 
ence, as  a  body,  are  : 

2  ff.  The  inaiianciiieiit  and  snperintendence  (in  accordance 
with  the  ])iineiples  and  rnles  laid  down  by  the  General 
Synod)  of  tlie  followinii'  general  eoneerns  of  the  Unity, 
namely — tiie  Foreign  Missions,  the  Bohemian  work,  and 
the  lenity's  Funds. 

J  h.  The  representation  of  the  Brethren's  Unity  in  trans- 
actions with  the  Euro])ean  Continental  State  authorities. 

4  c.  The  Unily's  Kldeis'  Conference  is  moreover  em- 
powei'ed  to  call  a  (Jeneial  Synod  in  extraordinary  cases, 
even  without  having  recei\  ed  any  distinct  commission  to 
this  effect  from  the  pi  eceding  General  Synod. 

o  d.  This  Conference  is  further  empowered,  when  special 
and  uigenl  cirennistances  appeal'  to  recpiire  an  exception 
to  be  made  to  a  rule  ado])ted  by  the  Synod,  bearing  on  the 
gentnal  concerns  of  the  Unity  above  mentioned,  to  make 
such  an  exception,  which,  however,  will  only  have  tem- 
porary validity  till  the  next  General  Synod.  It  is,  how- 
ever. presup])osed  that  the  Unity's  Elders'  Conference  will 
ojily  luiv  e  ic<'ourse  to  such  a  measure  when  the  circum- 
stances, on  conscientious  and  thorough  examination,  are 
found  imi»erat  ively  to  require  it,  and  that  a  separate  report 
regarding  such  an  exception,  with  a  statement  of  the 
causes  which  led  thereto,  will  be  laid  before  the  next 
General  Synod. 

O  ^.  The  rights  and  duties  of  the  Department  of  the  Unity 
of  the  Fnity's  Elders'  Conference  (see  §  75,  I.)  comprise, 
in  relei cnee  to  the  British  and  the  American  Provinces, 
the  following  : 

7      a.  The  Department  of  the  ITnity  has  the  sole  right  to 


53 


conduct  the  superintendence  of  these  Provinces,  according 
to  the  principles  and  rules  established  by  the  General 
Synods.  This  Department  maintains  a  connection  with 
the  Provincial  Synods  of  the  British  and  American  Pro- 
vinces, as  they  must  forward  to  it  their  Synodal  Results, 
and  whenever  there  appears  to  the  Department  of  the 
Thiity  to  be  anything  contrary  to  the  enactments  of  the 
General  Synod,  said  Provincial  Synods  must  submit  to 
censure  and  admonition. 

b.  The  Department  of  the  Unity  also  stands  in  c<)nstant  1 
connection  with  the  Provincial  Elders"  Conferences,  inas- 
much as  it  corresponds  wit  li  lliciii.  and  tlicy  must  forward 
to  it  copies  of  their  minutes,  as  also  any  other  infor- 
mation which  the  Department  ol  the  Tiiity  may  require  on 
subjects  falling  within  the  scope  of  the  Imsiness  belonging 
to  it.  In  this  case  also,  if  there  a])])ears  to  tlie  Department 
of  the  Unity  anj'thing  which  is  in  any  respect  contrary  to 
the  enactments  of  the  General  Synod,  said  Provincial 
Elders'  Conferences  must  submit  to  censure  and  admo- 
nition. 

c.  The  Department  of  the  Unity  is  the  standing  Gen-  2 
eral  Board  of  Appeal  for  the  Bi  itish  and  the  American 
Provinces. 

Consequently  an  appeal  may  be  made  to  the  Department 
of  the  Unity,  in  regard  to  the  luiitiial  relations  of  Provin- 
cial Synods  and  Piovincial  Ehlers"  C'onrei-eiices  to  each 
other,  as  also  in  regard  to  the  mutual  l  elatioiis  of  the  mem- 
bers of  a  Provincial  Elders"  Conleicnce  to  eacli  other — in 
regard  to  those  geiieial  concei  iis.  wliicli  stand  immediately 
under  the  superintendence  ol  the  1 )(  partment  of  the  Unity, 
and  in  regard  to  all  constitutional  (piestions  touching  such 
powers,  rights,  and  duties  of  Provincial  Synods  and  Pro- 
vincial Elders'  Conferences  as  have  \  alidity  in  all  the 
Provinces ;  it  being,  however,  understood,  that,  in  all  or 
any  of  those  cases,  a  further  appeal  may  be  made,  against 
the  decision  of  the  Dei^aitment  of  the  Unity,  to  the  (Gen- 
eral Synod.    Until,  however,  the  General  Synoil  has  pro- 


54 


iioimccd  its  jiKl^iiieut,  tlie  decision  of  the  Dcpai-tnient  of 
the  I'liity  is  l)iii(liiii;-  on  liic  iiarlics. 

1'  il.  'flic  I)c])artniciit  of  tlic  Uii it y  of  Mic  ITiiity's  Elders' 
('oiifi'ieiicc  is  also  ('m])o\vci('(i.  in  cxtiaoi'dinaiy  cases 
witiiin  Mic  (•oni])ass  of  its  functions,  to  indnce  the  Unity's 
Elders'  ( "onlci cnce  to  call  a  (loneral  Synod. 

2  e.  Tlic  1  )c|>ai  I  incnt  of  the  Unity  is  further  empowered, 
wlien  special  and  iii-j;ent  ciicnnistances  appear  to  require 
an  exception  to  lie  made  t(.)  a  rule  established  hy  the  Synod, 
hearing;'  on  the  hefoic  iiieni  ioned  general  concerns  of  the 
Tnity.  to  make  such  an  cxcei)tion.  which,  however,  will 
only  have  temjiorary  \alidil>  till  the  next  Genei'al  Synod; 
and  to  this  1  )e|>art ment  the  liiitish  and  the  American  Pro- 
vincial Elders"  ( 'onrcrciiccs  must  apply,  if  they  wish  this 
to  be  done.  It  is,  howe\  <'r.  presupposed  that  the  Depart- 
ment of  the  Unity  will  only  iiave  recouise  to  such  a  mea- 
sure when  the  circumstances,  on  conscientious  and  thorough 
examination,  arc  fouiul  imperatively  to  recpiire  it,  and  that 
a  scpaiale  rep(n  t  rcgardin;.;-  such  an  exception,  withastate- 
nient  of  llie  causes  whicli  led  thereto,  will  be  laid  before 
the  next  ( ienei  al  Synod. 

.*}  _/■.  Finally,  among  the  rights  and  duties  of  the  Depart 
nient  <>\'  the  I'nily  are  included  official  visitations  in  the 
lirifish  and  the  American  Provinces.  It  belongs  to  the 
I)e|>artment  of  the  I'nity  alone  to  detei'mine  what  brother 
shall  be  calh'd  u])on  to  p<'i  l'onu  a  visitation,  but  in  making 
its  selection,  the  Department  is  not  limited  to  its  own 
members.    (Synodal  Kesults,  187!),  >i  7(). ) 

Election  of  the  Unity's  Elders'  Conference. 

4  1.  At  the  Commencement  of  each  General  Synod  the 
tei'm  of  oHice  of  the  ])re\  iously exist  ing  I'nity's  Elders' 
Conference  comes  to  an  end.  The  (icnei  al  Synod  appoints 
a  new  rni( y's  I'^ideis"  Conleience  liy  electing,  in  the  first 
place,  the  lour  members  who  ;ire,  foi'lhe  period  until  the 
next  (ieneial  Synod,  to  (constitute  the  l)e])artinent  of  Mis- 
sions, and  next,  accepting  as  members  of  the  Unity's 


55 

Elders'  Conference  the  eight  brethren  who  have  been 
already  elected  by  the  previous  German  Preparatory  Pro- 
vincial Synod  as  members  of  the  Departments  of  Educa- 
tion and  the  Pastoral  Office  and  of  Finance  of  the  German 
Provincial  Elders'  Conference,  for  the  period  till  the  next 
German  Preparatoiy  Provincial  Synod.  Lastly,  one  mem- 
ber of  each  of  the  two  last-named  Departments  is  added, 
by  election  on  the  part  of  the  General  Synod,  to  the  four 
members  of  the  Dejiartment  of  Missions  of  the  Unity's 
Elders"  Conference,  and  these  six  form  the  Department  of 
the  Unity  of  the  Unity's  Elders'  Conference. 

2.  After  every  German  Preparatory  Provincial  Synod  1 
the  four  members  of  the  Department  of  Missions  are  under 
obligation  to  complete  the  constitutional  number  of  the 
Unity's  Elders'  Conference  until  the  next  General  Sjniod. 
by  co-optation  of  the  eight  brethren  already  elected  by  said 
German  Preparatory  Provincial  Synod  as  members  of  the 
Departments  of  Education  and  the  Pastoral  Office  and  of 
Finance. 

3.  Should  the  two  members  of  the  Department  of  the  2 
Unity  who  were  elected  from  the  Departments  of  Educa- 
tion and  the  Pastoral  Office  and  of  Finance  be  again 
elected  into  those  Departments  at  the  next  ensuing  German 
Preparatory  Provincial  Synod,  they  would  simply  remain 
members  of  the  Department  of  the  Unity.  But  in  case 
one  or  other  of  those  two  members  of  the  Department  of 
the  Unity  should  not  be  again  elected  into  the  respective 
departments  above-named,  the  case  is  to  be  treated  like  a 
vacancy  occurring  in  the  Department  of  the  Unity  between 
two  Synods.    ( See  §  78. ) 

4.  In  regard  to  those  elections  of  members  of  the  Unity's  3 
Elders'  Conference  which  are  mentioned  above,  as  to  be 
undertaken  by  the  General  Synod,  the  following  principles 
hold  good  : 

1.  The  members  of  the  previous  Unity's  Elders'  Confer-  4 
ence  are  re-eligible. 

2.  The  election  recjuires  an  absolute  majority.  ^7 


56 


1  3.  Each  General  Synod  ninst  doterraine  w  hether,  and  in 
what  way,  the  Lot  shall  be  used  for  the  confirmation  of  the 
election.    (Synodal  Results,  1879,  §  77.) 

The  Filling  of  Vacancies  in  the  Vnitjfs  Elders'  Conference  in 
the  Period  between  two  Synods. 

2  1.  The  General  Synod  empowers  the  Unity's  Elders' 
Conference  i('\('('])t  when  the  case  n)cnti()ned  in  S;  77,  2, 
occurs  I  to  an-aiiiic  tor  elections  to  till  vacancies  in  its  own 
body  (luring  an  inl ei' synodal  ])erio(l.  and  with  this  object, 
instructs  thai  < 'onfei-eiice  to  collect  liallols  from  the  respec- 
tive Prox  iiices  of  Ihe  I'nily,  in  accordaiuM'  with  the  direc- 
tions gi  below,  and  to  act  according- to  the  same.  The 
Unit,\  "s  lllders"  Conrerence  is  to  carry  the  election  into  exe- 
cution, having  regard  to  the  principles  laid  down  for  the 
use  of  the  Lot  —is  to  draw  up  a  minute  to  be  signed  by  all 
tlu'  nuMuheis  ol'  the  Couterence  who  are  present — is  to  call 
to  the  vacant  place  the  brother  whom  said  minute  declares 
to  be  elected  -and  is  t()  sui)i>ly  all  the  voting  electoral  col- 
leges with  a  icport  stating  the  way  in  which  the  votes  were 
distributed,  and  setting  forth  the  course  and  issue  of  the 
election. 

i  2.  Sucii  a  vacancy  as  is  iiere  referred  to  is  not  permitted 
to  be  created  by  tlie  Tnity's  p]lders'  Ciniferencc  itself,  by 
appointing  one  of  its  own  members  to  some  other  position, 
unless  indeed  one  of  its  own  members  requests  a  call  to  an 
aiiotiu'r  oflice.  But  any  member  of  the  Unity's  Elders' 
(Joiifciciice  is.  as  a  mattei'  of  couise,  at  liliei'ty  to  resign 
his  <iflice.  The  Tiiity's  Klders"  ('onfereuce  is  also  em- 
l)Oweied  to  bring  about  such  resignation  of  office  on  the 
l)ai  t  of  one  of  its  members. 

4  .!.  The  su])ply  of  vacancies  in  the  Department  of  the 
I'nity  is  to  lake  [)lace  in  accordance  with  the  following 
directions,  wiiich  are  obligatory  on  the  Unity's  Elders' 
Conference. 

5  a.  For  a  member  of  the  Department  of  Missions  there 
must  be  collected  froin  each  Province  seventeen  ballots  (in 


57 


the  Aiiiericau  Province,  thirteen  from  tlie  Northern  Dis- 
trict, and  four  from  the  Southern),  and  from  the  Depart- 
ment of  Missions,  the  Department  of  Education  and  the 
Pastoral  Office,  and  the  Department  of  Finance  of  the 
Unity's  Eklers'  Conference,  each  two  ballots,  making  a 
total  of  57  ballots.  Each  of  thase  ballots  is,  if  possible, 
to  contain  three  names. 

The  distribution  of  these  ballots  is  left  to  the  decision  of 
the  respective  Pro\  inces. 

These  ballots  nuist  be  deteimined  by  an  absolute  majority 
in  each  of  the  electoral  colle};es. 

b.  For  a  member  to  be  elected  for  this  Depaitment  from  1 
the  Department  of  Education  and  the  Pastoi-al  Ofiice  and 
the  Department  of  Finance  of  the  Unity's  Elders'  Confer- 
ence, the  rules  giA  en  in  a.  are  in  force  ;  but  each  ballot 
must,  in  this  case,  mention  the  name  of  only  one  brother 
belonging  to  the  Department  concei-ned.  It  is,  moreover, 
to  be  understood  that,  in  this  case,  votes  can  be  given  only 
for  members  of  these  two  l)('i)artnients. 

c.  In  all  elections  for  the  supply  of  vacancies,  the  rule  2 
holds  good,  that  a  brother  must  be  named  in  at  least  one- 
third  of  all  the  ballots  cast,  in  order  to  be  eligible. 
(Synodal  Results,  1879,    7S. ) 

>;  70,  2,  /.     0»  Visitdtionx. 

That  we  deem  it  impoi'tant  that  tliosc  wiio  are  charged  3 
with  the  administration  of  tlic  conccins  of  the  Unity, 
should  be.  as  far  as  possible,  ix-.sonally  accjuainted  with 
all  its  aifairs.  and  that  to  this  end  we  (  (insider  it  a  duty  of 
the  Unity's  Elders"  ( 'onffKiicc  localise  iV('([uent  visitations 
to  be  made  by  menibci  s  nl  its  nwn  body  in  the  various  Pro- 
vinces of  the  Unity.     Jonrnal.  l.S5(i,  p.  S2. ) 

>j  78,  3,  rt.    BallotH  for  the  Supply  of  Vacancies. 

That  the  votes  to  uliicli  tlic  Aniei  ican  Pi-ovincc  is  en-  4 
titled  in  tilling  vacancies  in  the  I )ei(aitiiieiit  of  the  Tnity 
A  the  Unity's  Elders'  Conference,  he  apportioned  among 
the  ministers  by  the  Provincial  Elders"  Confejence,  such 
apportionment  to  be  in  force  until  the  next  Synod.  (Jour- 
nal, 1881.  p.  85.) 


58 


I'KoviNciAi.  Synods. 

a.  GKNEKAI.  RUI.f:s  AND  PRINCIPLES. 

The  Duties  (nid  Fioiriinm  of  Provincial  Synods. 

1.  In  the  Pioviiicial  Synods  are  vested  the  supreme 
dii'oction  of  all  i)ro\  incial  affairs,  and  the  power  to  legislate 
in  re.uard  to  them  :  hut  no  resolut  ion  shall  be  adopted  con- 
Hictiiii!,'  with  the  urncral  lu  iiu'iplcs  and  i-ules  of  the  Breth- 
ren's Tnity.  as  cstalilisluMl  l)y  the  (icncral  Synods. 

2.  Moreover.  l*ro\  i iieial  Synods  must  recognize  it  as  a 
special  duty  to  recjuire  an  account  as  to  how  far  the  prac- 
tice of  the  congregations  of  their  respective  Provinces 
actually  confoiins  to  tlie  piincii)les  laid  down  by  the  Gen- 
eral Synods,  and  must  take  care,  as  far  as  lies  in  their 
l)o\ver.  that  this  conformity  of  practice  to  principle  take 
place,  so  that  these  itrincii)les  and  rnles  may  not  become  a 
dead  letter  among  ns. 

3.  Accordingly,  Provincial  Synods  have  the  following 
special  functions  : 

a.  To  determine  the  time  and  place  of  their  meeting, 
and  the  mode  of  their  organization  (but  with  the  limitation 
recorded  in  §  81,  5). 

h.  To  oversee  and  direct  the  finances  of  the  Province. 

c.  To  oversee  and  direct  all  edncational  institntions  in 
the  Province. 

(1.  To  found  new  congregations  and  determine  the  ar- 
rangements of  the  same,  and  also  to  alter  the  constitutions 
of  sucli  as  already  exist. 

e.  To  direct  the  Home  Mission  and  Diaspora  work  in  the 
Province. 

/.  To  direct  and  supei'intend  all  publications  in  the  Pro- 
vince, anthoi  i/ed  and  issned  by  the  Provincial  Synod  or 
the  Pro\- incial  Eldci's'  Conference,  with  proper  regard  to 
tlie  existing  principles  laid  down  in  reference  to  doctrine 
and  ritual. 

g.  To  hear  and  redress  complaints  and  grievances. 

h.  To  elect  the  entire  Provincial  Elders'  Conference,  or  a 
part  of  that  body,  in  accordance  Avith  the  rules  contained 


59 


ill  §  75  of  the  Kesults  of  the  (Jeiicnil  Synod  [which  refers 
to  the  constitution  of  the  Provincial  Eldei-s'  Conference  of 
the  German  Province],  and  in  accordance  with  the  rules 
laid  down  by  the  respective  Provincial  Synods. 

i.  To  elect  their  delegates  to  the  General  Synod  (vide 
§  70,  and  the  rules  of  the  respective  Provinces). 

4.  The  Provincial  Synods  shall  determine  what  special  1 
additional  functions  each  Province  will  assign  to  its  Pro- 
vincial Synods,  and  what  rules  it  will  adopt  with  regard  to 
membership,  as  well  as  with  regard  to  defraying  the  ex- 
penses of  the  Synods. 

5.  Just  as  the  resolutions  of  a  General  Synod  are  bind-  2 
ing  on  the  whole  Brethren's  Unity,  and  on  all  Boards,  con- 
gregations, ministers  and  individual  members  of  the  same, 
so  also  the  i-esolutions  of  a  Provincial  Synod  are  binding 
on  all  Boards,  congregations,  ministers  and  individual 
members  of  the  Province  concerned.  When,  however,  a 
Provincial  Synod  has  exceeded  its  powei"s,  or  when  a  dif- 
ference of  opinion  arises,  as  to  whether  such  is  the  case  or 
not,  the  decision  rests,  in  the  German  Province  with  the 
Unity's  Eldei-s'  Conference,  and  in  the  British  and  the 
Americaa  Proviiu-cs  with  the  Department  of  the  Unity  ; 
but  in  all  I'rovinccs  with  the  right  of  final  appeal  to  the 
General  Synod. 

6.  It  is  left  to  the  indix  idual  Provinces  to  determine  the  ;$ 
details  with  regard  to  the  organization  of  their  Provincial 
Synods :  and  the  rules  are  contained  in  the  Provincial 
Synodal  Results.    (Synodal  Results,  1879,  §  79.) 

b,   PROVIXCIAI.  CONSTITUTION,  ADOPTED  1856  ; 
APPROVED  1857. 

I.    Special  Incumbencies  of  the  Provincial  Synods  of  the  4 
XoHhern  District  of  the  American  Province. 

a.  To  fix  the  time  and  place  of  meeting  foi-  the  next  Pro- 
vincial Synod:  l)ut  in  case  of  emergency  the  Provincial 
Elders'  Conferenc<'  may  convene  the  Provincial  Synod  at 
an  earlier  day. 


60 


b.  To  determine  fi  oni  time  to  time  the  uumber  of  dele- 
gates wliicli  eacli  congregation  shall  be  entitled  to  send  to 
siu'li  Synods. 

c.  To  clcM'l  tile  dclcuatcs  wliich  the  Province  is  entitled 
to  scud  f(i  (ieiifral  Syiuids. 

d.  To  elect  an  Excciiti  vc  Board,  to  be  called  the  Provin- 
cial Elders'  < 'oiitcrcncc.  consisting  of  snch  nnmber  of  mem- 
bers as  the  I'rovincial  Synods  nniy.  from  time  to  time, 
determine,  to  be  clioscn  IVom  among  the  ordained  ministers 
of  the  Clmrch. 

c.  To  examine  and  direct  all  hnancial  matters  of  the 
Province,  and  i)rcsci  ibe  i  nies  for  tiieir  management. 

/.  To  have  the  o\  (  isiglit  and  direction  of  all  the  educa- 
tional instil  ntiinis  of  tlie  l'r(»vince. 

(J.  The  regulation  and  oi-ganization  of  congregations, 
and  tJie  general  direction  of  the  H(mie  Missions  of  the 
Province. 

h.  To  direct  and  control  all  Church  publications  in  the 
Province,  suliject  to  the  established  doctrine  and  liturgy. 

i.  To  preseribe  the  mode  of  nominating  Bishops. 

k.  To  hear  and  redress  complaints  and  grievances,  and 
generally  to  direct  all  matters  which  belong  to  the  govern- 
ment of  the  Church  in  the  Province,  and  to  adopt  such 
rules  and  I'cgulations  concerning  the  same,  as  do  not  en- 
croach upon  the  incumbencies  of  General  Synods.  (Jour- 
nal, 185(),  pp.  62,  63,  64  ;  Synodal  Results,  1857,  §  54,  A. 
pp.  50,  51.) 

1  Note. — By  way  of  explanation  to  i.  it  is  to  be  observed  : 
The  object  of  this  icsobition  does  not  go  farther  than  to 
secnre  to  the  Pro^•ill(■ial  Synod  tli<^  right  of  nomination,  on 
occasion  ol'  the  appointment  of  Bisliops  for  this  Province. 
It  iin[»li('s  that  iieitlicr  a  General  Synod  nor  the  Unity's 
Elders'  ( 'on  fcrence  can  appoint  a  brother  iis  Bishop  for  this 
Province,  without  his  having  been  previously  proposed  by 
the  Provincial  Synod.  (Synodal  Results,  1857,  §  54,  A. 
Note.) 


61 


II.    Members  of  Provincial  Sipwdfi. 

The  followinf>-  are  members  of  the  Provincial  Synod  of 
the  i^orthern  District  of  the  American  Province : 

a.  The  members  of  the  existing  I'rovincial  Ehlers'  Con- 
ference. 

b.  All  Bishops  residing-  in  the  District,  whether  in  actnal 
service  or  not. 

c.  All  ordained  ^  luinisters  in  the  District  who  are  ju 
a^UuU^rvice^  either  in  the  congregations  or  in  the  various 
edxicational  institutions. 

d.  The  delegates  from  the  se\ cral  congregations  of  the 
Brethren  in  the  District. 

e.  The  membejs  of  the  I'nity's  Elders'  Conference  or 
their  delegates,  the  delegates  of  the  several  Provinces  of 
the  Unity,  the  financial  agent  of  the  Unity's  Elders'  Con- 
ference in  the  Province,  and  sucih  other  brethren  as  the 
Provincial  Synod  may  determine  upon,  shall  be  entitled  to 
seats  ( as  advisory  members \  but  without  a  vote.  ( Journal, 
1856,  pp.  (52,  64,  74,  75.  Synodal  Results,  1857,  §  55,  A. 
pp.  52.  5.'?.) 

Additional  AHide. 

That  the  following  article  be  added  to  the  Constitution  of 
the  Chur(;h  of  the  Xortheru  American  Province  : 

"Any  proposed  alteration  in  the  Constitution,  as  the 
■■^aine  is  s(>f  forth  iu  tlie  Results  of  tlu-  (n'neral  Synod  of 
185 1 .  and  in  so  far  as  alterations  in  the  Constitution  are 
within  the  power  of  the  Piovincial  Synod,  shall  be  re- 
ferred to  a  Committee  of  nine,  to  be  elected  by  ballot ; 
and  when  this  Committee  shall  have  reporti'd  upon  the 
proposed  alteration,  the  same  shall  be  read,  as  rei^orted, 
shall  be  discussed  in  Syudtl.  and  shall  then  be  voted  upon 
on  three  several  days,  and  shall  be  considered  as  adopted 
only  in  case,  at  each  reading  and  voting,  three-fourths  of 
the  members  present  vote  in  its  favor."  (Journal,  1861, 
pp.  57.  68.) 


62 


C.  PROVINCIAL  By-I,AWK. 

§  79,  3,  a.   Organization  of  the  Promncial  Synod. 

1  r.  The  Provincial  Synod  sliali  Itc  opened  by  the  Presi- 
dent oC  the  l'i  o\  incial  l<]ldeis"  ( '< )n !(  rence,  bnt  shall  organ- 
ize l)y  eh'ctin^  its  own  olliccis.  the  President  to  be  chosen 
IVoiH  anioni;  I  lie  Pisliops  of  the  Pro\  inee.  if  any  be  in  at- 
tendance. i.Ionrnal.  IS.")*!,  i.p.  (;;!.  (11.  A  |»pro\ cd  ,Inly  25, 
1857;    but    omitted  l)y  o\ crsi^.iiit  in  tlie  Hesuits  of  1857.) 

2  II.  That  this  Synod  reco-ni/es  tliat  Kesolution  of  the 
Synod  of  ISotJ.  alterw aids  apj)ro\cd  liy  the  General  Synod 
of  1857,  that  the  Provincial  Synod  of  the  Xorthern  District 
of  the  Moravian  Church  in  North  America  be  limited  in 
her  choice  of  President  of  the  Pioviucial  Synod,  to  the 
Bisho]»s  of  the  Chnrcli,  who  may  be  present,  as  constitu- 
tional and  binding.    Mournal,  1864,  p.  6.) 

§  7i>,  .3.  a.  The  Provincial  Synod. 

ii  I.  That  the  Provincial  Synod  shall  be  convened  every 
five  yeai'S.    (Journal,  1N8S,  pp.  (i4.  72. ) 

4  II.  That  the  next  Provincial  Synod  shall  be  convened  in 
the  year  1893,  unless  the  Provincial  folders'  Conference 
decide  to  call  it  at  an  earlier  date. 

5  III.  That  the  Provincial  Kldeis'  Conference  be  directed 
to  fix  the  day  and  i»lace  of  the  next  meet in.i;  of  the  Pro- 
vincial Synod. 

6  IV.  That  the  invitation  of  the  congregation  at  Lancaster 
to  hold  the  next  meeting  of  the  Provincial  Synod  at  Lan- 
caster, Pa.,  be  commended  to  the  favorable  consideration 
of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference.  (Journal,  1888,  pji. 
90,  no.) 

7  V.  That  [the  invitation  of  the  Delegates  and  Pastors  of 
the  Church  at  Bethlehem  to  hold  the  m)xt  meeting  of  the 
Synod  at  Bethlehem  be]  referred  to  the  favorable  consider- 
ation of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference.  (Journal, 
1888,  pp.  112,  113.) 

Reduction  of  Membership. 

8  That  a  Committee  of  three  be  appointed  to  devise  a  plan 
by  which  a.  icdndion  of  the  membership  of  the  Provincial 
Synod  may  be  (;ifected,  to  be  i-eported  to  the  next  Synod. 
( j(niriial,  1888,  p.  89.) 


63 


79,  3.  (.    The  Election  of  Delegates  to  the  General  Synod. 

I.  That  the  seven  delegates  be  voted  lor  on  one  ticket.  1 

II.  Tliat  tlie  seven  alternates  be  voted  for  on  one  ti(!ket.  i> 
and  tliat  tliey  rank  according  to  the  order  of  ballots  and  to 
their  majorities. 

III.  Tliat  in  case  two  or  more  have  the  same  majority  8 
they  draw  lots. 

IV.  That  a  majority  of  the  votes  cast  be  necevSsai-y  to  a  4 
choice.    (Jonrnal,  1888,  pp.  64,  76.) 

§  79,  4.    Basis  of  Representation. 

That  in  the  election  of  dclcgatt's  to  the  Provincial  5 
Synods,  the  number  of  the  coiuumiiicniit  nuMubers  in  the 
several  congregations  on  the  Xfw  Year  i)r('('(Mliiig  said 
election  shall  be  taken  as  tin-  l)asis  ol  re])resentation  at  the 
Synod,  and  a  certified  copy  of  said  nuniiier.  signed  by  the 
minister  and  the  Church  Conunittee  or  lioard  of  Elders, 
shall  be  sent  in  to  the  Provincial  Elders"  Conference  prior 
to  the  holding  of  the  Synod.    -Joui  nal,  I.S.IS.  pp.  68.  72.) 

XiiDihrr  of  IHfi/ates. 

I.  That  each  congregati<m  having  less  than  150  com-  g 
numicant  members  shall  send  one  delegate;  each  congre 
gati<m  having  150  commniiicaiits  and  less  than  .300,  two 
delegates ;  each  congregation  having  :i<i()  coinninnicants 
and  less  than  .500,  three  delegates  :  each  congregation  hav- 
ing .500  commnnicants  and  less  than  7o(>,  shall  he  entitled 

to  four  delegates  :  each  congregation  Inn  ing  70(1  coinninni- 
cants and  less  than  <M)0.  shall  be  entitle<l  to  live  delegates; 
each  congregation  having  !ioo  coininiinicaiits  and  less  than 
1100,  shall  be  entitled  to  six  delegates:  each  congregation 
having  1100  communicants  and  less  than  J.ilK)  shall  he  en- 
titled to  seven  delegates;  each  congregation  Inning  l.".()0 
coinninnicants  and  less  than  15(10.  shall  he  entitled  to  eight 
delegates:  and  hir  congregations  Inning  1500  coniniuni- 
cants  or  inoie.  the  same  ratio  between  coinniiinicant  mem- 
bers and  delegates  shall  be  observed.  (Journal,  1858,  pp. 
68,  72  ;  1888,  pp.  27,  39.  ) 

II.  That  when  two  or  more  congregations  which  unite  in  7 
the  support  of  the  same  pastor,  shall  be  admitted  to  the 
class  of  congregations  entitled  to  lay  representation  at 
Provincial  Synods,  the  number  of  delegates  to  which  such 
affiliated  congregations  are  entitled  shall  be  determined 
upon  the  basis  of  the  communicant  membership  of  the 
largest  of  these  congregations.    (Journal.  1884,  pj).  .52,  59.) 


64 


Election  of  Delegates. 

1  I.  That  in  the  election  of  deleji:ates  to  the  Synod  of  this 
Province,  the  several  conjiics^nxtions  shall  be  at  liberty  to 
determine  for  thcinsel  vcs  what  (lualilical  ions  shall  be  neces- 
sary to  cntit  Ic  t  he  individual  luciidx-rs  to  tlie  privilege  of 
votins;-,  ])i'()vided.  iiowcver.  tliat  no  person  shall  be  allowed 
to  vote  tor  (h'lc,i;a(es  w  lio  are  not  regulai'  communicant 
members  in  good  standing. 

2  II.  Tliat  elections  of  (h'Icgatcs  to  Provincial  Synods  shall 
be  by  ballot,  and  a  majoi  ity  ol'  all  the  xotcs  cast  shall  be 
necessary  to  a  choice  ;  should  tlicic  l)e  a  tie  hctween  candi- 
dates, a  new  election  shall  he  held. 

;5  III.  That  delegates  shall  be  liirnished  witli  certificates  of 
election  signed  by  the  otticcis  of  the  meeting  at  which  the 
election  is  held,  or  oIIut  proper  authorities  ])i-esiding  over 
it,  which  certiiicates  shall  state  i  hat  the  delegate  was  elected 
by  a  majority  of  xntes.    (.louinal.  ISi;?.  pj).  »;.">,  (i.'i. ) 

4  IV.  That  "the  i'rovincial  l':iders"  ('onlei-ence  is  directed 
to  send  out  i)rintcd  blank  cei  l  i licat <'s  of  election  of  dele- 
gates to  the  Synod.  alon<i  with  the  ciiculais  appointing 
tile  elect  ion,  said  ceiiilicates.  in  each  case,  to  be  filled  out 
by  the  proper  ollicers.     (.lournal,  1S.S4,  p|).  '_!!»,  30.) 

5  V.  That  no  one  shall  be  eligible  as  delegate  of  any  con- 
gregation who  is  not  a  icsideiil  coiinnunicaiit  member,  in 
good  standing,  of  the  same.     (Journal.  IST.'i,  p.  ()4.) 

«  "  VI.  Thai  I  he  circulais  of  the  Provincial  lOlders'  Confer- 
ence, issued  for  the  election  of  d(dcgatcs.  shall  include  a 
copy  of  the  above  lesolutions  in  full.  (Journal,  1867,  pp. 
63-65. ) 

Bight  to  Reprenentafion. 

7  I.  That  no  congregation  before  it  is  self-supporting  shall 
be  entitled  to  lay  re])resentation  at  Provincial  Synods. 
(Journal,  187(;,  p.  (it.  i 

8  II.  That  the  right  of  any  congregation  to  lay  represen- 
tation in  Provincial  Synods,  shall  l)e  contingent  upon  its 
pi-ovidiiig  foi-  an  actual  and  adecpiate  salary  of  its  minister 
and  for  the  necessities  of  its  cliiircli  establishment,  either 
IVoni  the  actual  contributions  of  its  lay  membership,  or 
I'ldin  I  he  income  oC  its  ow  n  church  lunds,  without  any 
lixed  or  regular  aid  out  of  I  he  general  l  iiiids  of  the  Church, 
during  the  inteixal  between  the  pic\  ions  Synod  and  the 
Synod  about  toconxcne:  rro/'idcd.  however,  that  this  pro- 
\-isiou  shall  nol  i-efcr  to  the  tirsl  applicat  ion  of  congTega- 
t  ions  foi'  represenlal  ion,  which  shall  be  accorded  by  special 
act  of  Synod.    (.Journal,  bS.Sl,  pj).  4!».  .")7.  M.) 


65 


III.  That  applications  for  lay  representation  in  Synod  1 
be  hereafter  made  accordinjj  to  a  prescribed  form,  the 
blank  for  which  shall  be  ^[)repared  by  the  Provincial  Elders' 
Conference.    The  blank  shall  be  tilled  np  with  explicit 
statements  in  regard  to  : 

a.  The  indebtedness  resting  npou  the  congregation  at  the 
time  of  the  application. 

b.  The  amount  of  salary  actually  paid  the  pastor. 

IV.  That   such   fornml  application   must  have   been  2 
adopted  by  a  church  council,  regularly  called,  and  must  be 
signed  bj-  the  officers  of  said  church  council,  as  well  as  by 
the  Elders  and  Trustees  of  the  congregation  before  its " 
presentation  to  the  Synod.    (Journal,  1884,  pp.  50,  52.) 

V.  That  any  congregation  ceasing  to  provide  for  the  li 
support  of  its  minister,  and  for  the  necessities  of  its  church 
establishment,  shall  thereby  be  returned  directly  to  the 
care  and  charge  of  the  Provincial  Board  of  Church  Exten- 
sion.   (^Journal,  1878,  pp.  150,  152.) 

Ordained  Home  Missionaries  are  Full  Members  of  Provincial 
Synods. 

That  all  our  ordained  Home  Missionaries  in  active  ser-  4 
vice  shall  have  a  vote  at  tliis  and  all  future  Provincial 
Synods  ;  and  that,  as  to  their  (■\])enses  '.when  attending 
Synod),  they  shall  be  placed  lui  tlie  same  footing  with  all 
other  ministers  ;  and  that  all  former  resolutions  or  parts  of 
resolutions  of  Synods,  conflicting  with  this  resolution,  be 
hereby  rescinded.    (Journal,  1864,  pp.  41,  42.) 

Expenses  of  Provincial  and  District  Synods. 

I.  That  the  expenses  of  future  Synods  be  borne  by  the  .<> 
congiegations  of  the  Province.    (Journal,  1868,  pp.  94. 
120. ) 

II.  That  hereafter  every  congregation  be  required  to  (> 
make  up  its  contribution  for  the  expenses  of  Provincial 
[and  District]  Synods  prior  to  the  convening  of  the  same. 

III.  That  the  above  resolution  [II]  be  inserted  in  the  7 
circular  sent  to  the  congregations  by  the  Provincial 
Elders'  Conference,  announcing  the  time  and  place  for  the 
meeting  of  the  Synods.    (Journal.  1873,  pp.  81,  82.) 

IV.  That  for  the  defrayment  of  the  expenses  of  Provin-  S 
cial  and  Di.strict  Synods  the  self-sustaining  congregations 
shall  contribute  at  the  rate  of  20  cents  per  annum  for  each 
communicant  membei-  and  the  Home  Mission  congrega- 


66 


tioils  at  the  rate  of  15  cents  per  annum  for  each  comnmni- 
cant  member  ;  these  assessments  to  be  remitted  annually 
to  the  Provincial  Treasurer.    (Journal,  1888,  pp.  6.5,  74. ) 

1  V.  That  the  annual  contributions  for  Synodal  Expenses 
shall  be  paid  on  or  before  April  .30.  (Journal,  1888, 
p.  106.) 

2  VI.  Tliat  only  t  lie  necessary  raili'oad  fare,  with  subsist- 
ence, be  allow  ed  the  members  wlio  attend  this  Synod  and 

.  future  Synods,    (.loni  nal,  1S7S,  p.  108.) 

li  VII.  Tliat  t  he  expenses  of  advisory  members  of  the  Pro- 
vincial Synods  hereafter  to  be  held,  be  not  jjaid  by  the 
Provincial  Synod.    (Journal,  1S.")6,  ]).  98.) 

4  VIII.  Tliat  I  lie  balance  i-emaining  in  the  hands  of  the 
Committee  on  Synodal  Expenses,  after  all  the  expenses  of 
the  Proxineial  Synod  shall  have  been  met.  shall  be  paid 
over  to  tiie  Pi()\  incial  Treasurer  for  futuie  1  )ist l  iet  and 
Provincial  Synodal  E\])enses.    (Journal,  l.s.s,s,  p.  110.) 

§  79,  5.  Promulgation  of  Resolutions. 

,5  That  the  jtastors  be  and  aie  heicby  instructed  to  call  a 
cluirch  ciiiincil  as  soon  as  practicable  after  the  adjournment 
of  each  Synod,  for  the  purpose  of  conimunicatiny  the 
enactments  of  the  same.    (.Journal,  1878,  p.  166.) 

The  Provincial  Digest. 

(i  I.  That  tlie  collection  of  rules  and  regulations,  including 
those  of  the  present  Synod,  be  printed  under  the  title  of 
"The  Provincial  Digest." 

7  II.  That  a  copious  index  be  prepared  to  facilitate  refer- 
ence. 

8  III.  That  "The  Provincial  Digest"  be  distributed  gratis 
and  liberally  in  our  congregations.  (Journal,  1881,  pp. 
104,  105.  ■ 

0  IV.  That  the  "Provincial  Digest"  is  herewith  made 
the  Law  book  of  the  Province  in  so  far  as  it  agrees  with 
the  Official  .Fournals  of  our  General  and  Provincial  Synods. 
(Jcmrnal,  1.SS4,  pp.  26,  .58,  59.) 

10  V.  Tiiat  as  soon  as  possible  after  the  adjournment  of  this 
]'ro\  incial  Synod,  tliere  shall  be  published  revised  editions 
of  the  I'i ovincial  Digest  and  Proviuzial  Ordnung,  with 
sucli  omissions  and  additions  as  are  rendered  necessary 
by  the  legislation  of  the  Provincial  Synods  of  1884  and 
1888.    (Journal,  1888,  pp.  107,  108.) 

11  VI.  That  the  cost  of  printing  the  new  and  revised 
editi(ms  of  the  Provincial   Digest  and  the  Proviuzial 


fit 


Ordnung  be  paid  out  of  the  balance  of  the  monej'  contrib- 
uted to  pay  the  expense  of  the  present  Synod.  (  Journal, 
1888,  p.  1 10. ) 

VII.  That  a  Conimittee  of  three  be  appointed  to  sit  1 
during  the  recess  of  Synod  for  the  purpose  of  codifying 
the  laws  and  rules  of  tlic  Province,  the  ('oniniiftcc  to  re- 
port to  the  next  Provincial  Svnod.    (Journal,  1SS8,  pp. 
37,  62. ) 

VIII.  That  said  Committee  make  such  grammatical  and  2 
rhetorical  changes  as  mav  be  necessary.    (Journal,  1888, 
pp.  91,  11  o.^ 

70,  6.    Duty  of  Members  to  Attend. 

That  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  all  who  are  members  of  a  :{ 
Sj'nod  to  attentl  the  same  ;  or,  if  prevented,  to  send  a 
proper  explanation  of  their  absence.    (Journal,  1873,  p. 
64.) 

Reports  of  Officers  and,  Boards. 

I.  That  among  the  first  items  of  business  to  be  submitted  4 
to  each  Synod  sliall  be,  Peiioi  ts  of  all  officers  and  bodies 
appointed  by  Synod  to  act  <luiing  the  recess  lict ween  one 
Synod  and  tlic  next.    (.Journal.  I.s.K;.  j).  (K).  ) 

II.  Thai  ill  I'lilurc  a  slatcincnt  of  tlic  financial  affairs  of 
the  Sustciitat  ion  Diacony  and  of  tlic  Church  Schools 
under  its  charge,  be  i)rcscntcd  at  the  meeting  of  every 
Provincial  Synod.    (Journal,  IS.^,  pp.  68,  69,  86,  87.) 

Reports  of  Congregations. 

I.  That  all  Eeports  of  congregations  be  submitted  in  (> 
WRITING,  duly  signed  by  the  nnnister  or  delegates  of  the 
congregation.    (Journal,  1864,  p.  79  ;  18(;7,  ]i.  TiO. 

II.  That  in  ordei'  to  secure  moie  uniforniily  in  the  re-  7 
ports  from  tlie  eongicuations.  the  following  series  ol'  (|ues- 
tious  or  topics  he  adopted  l)y  Synod,  to  serve  as  a  guide  to 
pastors  in  the  pi  eparation  of  their  reports  : 

a.  State  the  number  of  coniinunicants  and  the  averaj^e  annual  l  ate 
of  increase  or  decrease  for  tlie  past  three  years. 

h.  State  the  number  of  Sunihij'  services,  their  character  and  in 
\\  hat  laufjuage  they  have  been  held. 

r.  State  as  nearly  as  possible  the  average  number  of  hearers,  what 
proportion  of  theiii  are  non-members,  and  what  is  the  ratio  of  attend- 
ance of  males  and  females. 

d.  What  weekly  services  are  lield,  and  how  attended. 

c.  Wliich  of  the  Church  festivals,  and  distinctively  Moravian  festi- 
vals, are  held. 


68 


/.  How  is  tlic  MoTithly  Prayer  Meeting  attended,  and  is  there  a 
collection  for  Forciun  Missions  t;ikon  up  in  connection  with  it. 

g.  State  tlie  cdiKiiuun  lunl  altcndiuicc  at  the  Sunday-school,  and 
how  many  sessicms  arc  held  each  Sunday. 

h.  What  or^ani/.ations.  lor  Missions  '(Foreign  and  Home),  and 
benevolent  or  other  causes,  exist  in  the  congregation. 

/.  What,  it'  any,  method  of  organization  or  procedure  for  promoting 
mutual  fellowsfiip,  or  of  assisting  the  pastor  in  the  care  of  souls, 
especially  of  the  young,  exists  in  tlie  congregation. 

/.  What  fields  of  Christian  labor,  such  as  preaching,  Sunday- 
schools,  visitation  on  the  part  of  the  laity,  if  any,  have  been  estab- 
lished in  the  vicinity  of  the  congi'egation,  or  are  supported  as  a 
branch  of  tlie  same. 

k.  Is  the  coni-regation  divided  into  districts  or  classes,  and  to  what 
e.Ktent  have  any  systematic  attempts  been  made  to  call  out  the  ac- 
tivity of  the  laity  in  these  fields  of  labor? 

/.  State  the  average  amount  of  contributions  per  member  to  all 
causes;  state  the  i-esults  of  the  "systematic  beneficence"  plan,  if  it 
is  in  operation. 

m.  Is  tlie  parsonage  furnished? 

n.  Is  the  salary  sufhcient,  and  is  it  paid  regularlj^ ;  what  portion  of 
it  is  paid  from  chui  ch  funds,  and  what  is  the  number  of  contributing 
members? 

o.  What  iM-ospect,  if  any,  is  there  for  the  extension  of  the  work  in 
your  city,  town,  or  district? 

p.  Have  you,  your  Eiders  and  Trustees,  and  your  congregations 
complied  with  the  resolutions  and  enactments  of  Provinci  d  Synod? 

q.  Which  of  the  enacttments  of  last  Synod  have  not  been  complied 
with  by  your  congregation  ? 

r.  What  is  the  general  spiritual  condition  of  your  congregation? 

s.  How  many  communion  services  do  you  hold  annually,  and  what 
is  the  average  annual  attendance  at  the  general  communions? 

t.  State  the  proportionate  attendance  upon  the  English  and  the 
German  or  Skandinavian  services  which  you  hold,  and  the  number 
of  these  services. 

(Questions  it  to  o.  Journal,  1873,  pp.  63,  64;  questions  p  and  q, 
Journal,  187S,  pp.  1,39,  166;  question  r,  Journal,  1884,  pp.  76,  77; 
questions  s  and  t,  Journal,  1888,  pp.  98,  111.) 

1  III.  That  these  questions  or  topics  be  printed  and  sent 
by  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  triennially  to  all  the 
pastors  of  the  congregations  of  the  Province.  (Journal, 
1873,  pp.  (53,  64. ) 

2  IV.  That  hereafter  in  giving  reports  of  their  congrega- 
tions, pastors  shall  hand  in  to  the  Chairman  of  the  Com- 
mittee on  the  State  of  Religion  on  separate  slips  brief 
answers  to  the  questions  or  topics  now  laid  down  as  a  basis 
of  their  reports,  and  that  blanks  prepared  for  this  purj)ose 
be  sent  to  each  pastor,  previous  to  the  meeting  of  Synod, 
by  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference. 

;j  V.  That  every  congregation  shall  have  the  opportunity 
to  make  other  statements  with  regard  to  its  spiritual  or 
temporal  condition  or  special  experiences  to  Synod,  being 
limited  in  time  to  five  minutes.  (Journal,  1881,  pp.  105, 
106.  j 


69 


Scrmms  before  the  Sytiod. 

I.  That  at  each  Synod  a  brother  be  appointed  by  the  1 
President  to  deliver  before  the  next  Synod  a  sermon,  or 
address,  on  any  subject  connected  witli  the  history,  princi- 
ples, ritual,  or  polity  of  the  Moravian  Churcli  ;  the  Pro- 
vincial Elders'  Conference  to  have  power  to  find  a  substitute, 

if  necessary.    (Journal,  1861,  p.  68.) 

II.  That  in  the  future  a  Synodical  sermon  be  preached  in  2 
each  language.    (Journal,  1876,  p.  63. ) 

Advisory  Members. 

Tliat  wlien  niini.sters  of  sister  Churches  or  delegates  3 
from  the  Synods  of  other  Churches  attend  the  Synod, 
thev  mav,  on  motion,  be  constituted  advisory  members. 
(Journal,  1864,  p.  49.) 

RULES  OF  ORDER  OF  THE  PROVINCIAL  SYNOD. 

That  the  rules  of  order,  as  amended,  be  made  the  Rules  4, 
of  Order  of  the  Provincial  Synod.    (Journal,  1888,  p.  41.) 
They  are  tis  follows : 

DUTIES  AND  PRIVILKUES  OF  THE  PRESIDENT. 

Rule  1.— It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  President  to  preserve  order, 
and  to  endeavor  to  conduct  all  business  befoi  e  Synod  to  a  speed,v  and 
proper  result.  He  shall  state  every  case  lu  iipcrl  v  picsi  iited  to  Synod, 
and  before  putting  it  to  vote,  shall  ask.  ■•  [s  lin- >\  n.>(l  ready  for  the 
question?"    He  shall  announce  all  voles  ami  (Iccisiuiis. 

Rule  2.— In  case  the  Synod  shall  be  eqiuvlly  divideil  on  any  ques- 
tion, it  shall  be  considered  lost. 

Rule  3.— The  President  maj^  speak  to  points  of  order  in  prefer- 
ence to  otlier  members  of  the  Synod;  and  shall  decide  questions  of 
order,  subject  to  an  appeal  to  the  Synod  by  any  member,  which 
api)eal  shall  always  be  in  writing. 

Rule  4.— When  an  appeal  is  made  from  the  decision  of  the  Presi- 
dent, he  shall  put  the  question  thus  :  "  Shall  the  decision  of  the.('hair 
stand  as  the  judgment  of  the  Synod?" 

Rule  o. — Tiie  President  shall  appoint  all  Committees,  unless  the 
Synod  shall  otherwise  direct. 

Rule  6. — It  siiall  be  the  duty  of  the  presiding  officer,  and  the  privi- 
lege of  any  member  of  Synod,  to  call  a  member  to  order,  who  violates 
an  established  Rule  of  (irder. 

Rule  ".—The  name  of  the  brother  offering  the  resolution,  proposi- 
tion, or  amendment,  shall  be  entered  upon  the  Journal,  by  the 
Secretary. 

Rule  8.— The  Secretary  shall  enter  upon  the  .Journal  every  resolu- 
tion or  proposition  submitted  to  the  Synod,  or  report  made  by  a  Com- 
mittee, in  the  words  in  which  it  was  submitted  by  the  mover,  or  pre- 
sented by  the  Committee;  also  all  amendments  ottered,  wliether 
adopted  or  rejected  ;  and  before  the  final  vote  is  taken  on  the  resolu- 
tion, |)roposition,  or  report  which  may  have  been  amended,  it  shall 
again  be  entered  in  the  words  on  which  the  final  vote  is  taken,  unless 
the  amendments  can  be  readily  supplied  from  the  Journal  without 
such  re-entry. 


70 


MOTIONS. 

Rin.R  9.  —  A  motion  must  he  sccoii(l(>il.  .•iiul  afterwards  repeated  from 
the  (.'liaii-,  or  ie:ul  .ilciii.l,  lictoic  il  is  ilclcited.  A  motion  shall  be 
reduced  to  writini;.  it':iii\-  lir.illici-  i.n  |  iii  i-c  it . 

Rri.K  1(1.  — All  resdliiti.uis  shall  I..-  sulimitted  in  writin;,'. 

Kui.K  11.— An\-  hrothei-  lm\  inii  made  a  motion,  may  witildravv  it 
witli  leave  of  his  soroiid,  hdbie  it  is  debated,  but  not  afterwards 
without  leave  of  the  Synod. 

Rule  12. — A  motion  to  amend  an  amendment  shall  he  in  order, 
but  to  amend  an  amendment  to  an  amendment  shall  not  be  enter- 
tained. 

Rui,E  13.— An  amendment  destroying,  or  altering  the  intention  of  a 
motion  shall  he  in  order;  but  an  amendment  relating  to  a  different 
subject  shall  iiol  he  in  t)rder. 

Rri.io  14.  I  In  an  amendment  to  "strike  out  and  insert,"  the  para- 
graph lo  1)0  amiaiilcd  shall  lii'sl  be  I'ead  as  it  stands,  then  the  words 
proposed  to  lie  slnick  out  and  those  to  \>f  inserted, and  finally  the 

RiTi.K  1.1.  —  A  call  Ibi-  a  division  of  the  (piestion  can  only  be  granted 
when  the  division  ealleil  for  will  leave  distinct  and  entire  propo- 
sitions. 

DllBATE. 

Rule  16.— When  a  nicnihci-  speaks,  or  ofiers  a  motion,  he  shall  rise 
in  his  place,  and  rcspccHiili  v  a  Idicssing  the  Chair,  confine  himself  to 
thequestion  under  considci  a!  ion. 

Rule  17.  -When  a  nc  nilu  i  is  called  to  order,  he  shall  take  his  seat 
until  the  point  is  dclci auincd. 

Rule  is.  -When  i  wo  oi-  more  members  rise  to  speak  at  the  same 
time,  the  presiding  ,,iii,-er  shall  decide  who  is  entitled  to  the  lloor. 

Ufi.i:  lit.  While  a  l.rolher  is  speakin-,  no  on.'  shall  iiilen-ii|)t  him 
excepi  for  I  he  piiri  lose  of  eal  liic^  hi  m  I  <  i  o  rd  e  r.  o  r  ask  i  i  e^-  . .  f  I  he  presid- 
ing ollicer  leave  lo  explain.  \  brother  allowed  "to  e  x  pl.a  i  n  "  shall 
only  have  the  riij,hl  to  explain  an  actual  misunderstanding  of  lan- 
guage, and  is  strictly  proh+hileil  fi-om  going  into  debate  on  the  merits 
of  the  case. 

Rule  20.— For  any  brother  in  speaking  to  impeach  the  motives  of 
a  fellow-member,  or  treat  him  with  personal  disrespect,  or  pass  be- 
tween him  and  the  Chair  while  he  is  speaking,  shall  be  a  violation  of 
order. 

Kur,E  21.  — .\ny  conversation,  li\-  w  hispering  or  otherwise,  which  is 
calculated  to  dislurl' a  l.roihei-  w  hile  sj. caking,  or  hinder  the  trans- 
action of  business,  shall  \ir  a  violation  of  order. 

Rule  22. — In  the  discussions,  no  one  shall  speak  more  than  three 
times  on  any  one  (itiestion. 

PRIVILEGED  QUESTIONS. 

Rule  2:!.  — When  a  .pieslion  is  before  the  .Svnod,  the  onlv  motions 
in  order  shall  he  :  Isi.  to  .idjonrn  ;  2d,  the  pre\  i<Mis  pnestion  :  ;ld,  to 
lav  on  the  table;  II  li,  (o  post  pone  i  ndeli  n  itel  v  :  elh,  t.>  postpone  to  a 
dertuite  day;  Gth,  to  refer;  71h,  lo  divide;  orSth,  to  amend  :  to  take 
precedence  as  herein  arranged. 

Rule  24.— When  the  |>i-ev  ions  (pu'siion  is  moved.  ,and  sustained  by 
live  other  members,  il  shall  be  piil  in  this  form:  •■  .s;|Kai  the  main 
finest  ion  iiic,\  I.e  put  '.'  "  I  f  I  his  i s  ea  r riei  1 ,  a  1 1  flirt  her  motions,  amend- 
ments, and  debates  sli.all  he  exchi,le,l,  and  the  ipfstioil  be  put  with- 
out delay.  1 1  aliici id mta 1 1 s  ai  i'  pending,  Ihe  iiucstion  shall  first  be 
taken  on  lliein  in  regular  ordcj-.  It  shall  not  be  in  order  to  recon- 
sider the  agreement  to  take  the  i^revious  question. 


71 


Rule  25.— When  a  question  is  postponed  indefinitely,  it  shall  not 
Pome  up  again  during  the  sitting  of  the  same  Synod  ;  and  wlien  laid 
on  the  table  it  can  only  l>e  taken  up  again  on  motion. 

ADJOfRNMENT. 

Rrr.E  26.— A  motion  to  adjourn  shall  always  be  in  order,  except, 
Isi,  when  a  member  is  in  possession  of  the  floor;  2d,  when  the  yeas 
and  nays  are  being  called;  .3d,  v.hen  the  inembers  are  voting;  4th, 
when  adjournment  was  the  last  preceding  motion;  or,  ,5th,  when  it 
has  been  tiecided  that  the  previous  question  shall  be  taken. 

Rule  27. — A  motion  to  adjourn  can  not  be  amended  ;  but  a  mo- 
tion to  adjourn  to  a  given  time  may  be,  and  is  open  to  debate. 

Rule  28. — An  adjournment  to  a  subsequent  day  lays  tlie  matter 
under  consideration  on  the  table,  whence  it  may  be  taken  up  at  any 
time  on  motion. 

QUESTIONS  NOT  DEBATABLE. 

Ri:le29.— 1.  A  motion  to  adjourn,  when  to  adjourn  simply.  2.  A 
motion  for  the  i)revious  (luesti'on.  3.  A  motion  "to  lay  on  the  table, 
when  claiming  privilege  over  another  motion.  4.  A  motion  to  read 
a  paper.  .5.  Questions  of  order  whilst  the  previous  question  is  pend- 
ing. 6.  Questions  of  order  when  not  appealed  from  the  decision  of 
the  President. 

READING  OF  PAPERS. 

Rule  30. — The  reading  of  anj-  paper  called  for,  relating  to  the 
subject  under  debate,  shall  always  be  in  order. 

TAKING  THE  VOTE. 

Rule  31. — When  the  presiding  officer  has  commenced  taking  a 
vote,  no  further  debate  or  remark  shall  l)e  admitted,  unless  a  mis- 
take has  been  made;  in  which  case  the  mistake  shall  be  rectified, 
and  the  presiding  officer  shall  recommence  taking  the  vote. 

Rule  32.— The  yeas  and  nays  upon  any  question  may  be  called 
for  by  two  members,  and  w  hen  so  called,  shall  be  taken  and  en- 
tered" on  the  Journal.  Tliey  may  be  calle<l  for  at  any  time  before 
the  announcement  of  the  vote  by  the  Chair. 

RxTLE  33. — In  all  elections  by  "ballot,  a  majority  of  the  whole  num- 
ber of  votes  cast  shall  be  necessary  to  a  choice,  except  in  cases  when 
Synod  shall  determine  two-thirds' to  be  necessary. 

Rule  34. — In  voting  by  yeas  and  nays,  all  present  must  vote, 
unless  excused  by  the  Synod.  A  motion  to  excuse  shall  be  decided 
without  debate. 

FILLING  BLANKS. 

Rule  35.— When  any  blank  is  to  be  filled  by  the  names  of  persona, 
a  vote  shall  be  taken  on  the  names  in  the  order  of  their  nomination  ; 
but  when  a  blank  is  to  be  filled  by  any  sum  of  money  or  time  pro- 
posed, the  question  shall  be  first  put  on  the  largest  sum',  and  the  most 
remote  time. 

RECONSIDERATION. 

Rule  36. — A  question  may  be  reconsidered  at  any  time  not  later  than 
the  day  after  it  was  decided  ;  but  a  motion  for  reconsideration  being 
once  made,  and  decided  in  the  negative,  shall  not  be  renewed. 

Rule  37. — A  motion  to  reconsider  must  be  made  by  a  member  who 
voted  in  the  majority.  No  question  shall  be  reconsidered  more  than 
once ;  nor  shall  a  vote  to  reconsider  be  reconsidered. 


72 


C'OMMITTKKS  AND  THEIR  RKPORTS. 

Rule  38.— The  Standing  Committees  of  the  Synod  shall  be: 

1.  On  State  of  Religion. 

2.  On  Church  Government. 

3.  On  Education. 

4.  On  Finance. 

5.  On  Publications. 

6.  On  Discipline. 

7.  On  Ritual  and  Worship. 

8.  On  Foreign  Missions. 

9.  On  Home  Missions. 

10.  On  Jioheinian  Mission. 

11.  On  Minutes  of  Previous  Synods. 
I'J.  On  Devotional  lOxercises. 

i:?.  On  Synodal  Isxpenses. 

14.  On  h'laliM  u.il  I (clations  and  Correspondence, 
ir..  ( )n  Kiilcs  ..r  I  h  ilcr. 

'riic  iHiiiilier  of  iiiimljers  of  each  of  these  Standing  Committees 
shall  be  detorniiucd  by  each  Synod. 

Rule  39.— The  Pro\  incial  lOldi'is'  (  '(inference  shall  be  a  Standing 
Committee  on  Credentials;  w  licise  dni\-  it  shall  be,  previous  to  the 
meeting  of  Synod,  to  procure  the  credentials  of  the  delegates  of  the 
•different  congregations,  and  to  re|)ort  immediately  after  the  opening 
exercises  of  the  Synod. 

Rule  40.— The  brother  first  named  on  the  appointment  of  a  Com- 
mittee, shall  be  ehainnan  of  the  same,  and  shall  call  the  Committee 
together  at  sin-li  lime  and  place  as  he  may  s(!lect ;  but  when  thus 
convened,  aii\  ( "t mi m ittee  may  elect  its  own  chairman  and  secretary. 

RiTLE  41. -  All  i-eports  of  ('(iinmillees,  except  reports  of  progress, 
shall  be  niade  in  writing,  and  siuned  hy  a  majority. 

Rule  42. — When  a  majorii  \  i  c  |hii  i  is  followed  by  a  report  from 
the  minority  of  the  ('oinmittei',  the  loiiuer,  after  being  read,  shall  lie 
upon  the  table  until  tlie  lattei-  is  i)resented,  after  which,  on  motion, 
either  may  be  cdnsidered. 

Rule  43.— When  a  repui  t  has  been  read,  it  shall  be  considered  as 
properly  before  the  Synod,  williout  a  motion  to  accept. 

Rule'  44.— Except  with  the  unanimous  consent  of  the  members 
present  at  any  session  of  the  Synod,  the  Reports  of  none  of  the  Stand- 
ing Committees  of  tlu;  Synod  shall  be  taken  up  for  consideration 
until  the  session  next  succeeding  that  in  which  .said  Report  was  pre- 
sented and  read  in  the  Synod. 

Rule  45. — Every  resolution  presented  to  Synod  sliall,  if  required 
by  any  member,  be  translated  into  the  German  language  before 
action  is  taken  thereon. 

Rule  46.— No  member  shall  be  allowed  to  return  home  before  final 
adjournment,  except  on  leave  of  the  Synod. 

RtTLE  47.— No  motion  or  resolution  appropriating  any  of  tlie  funds 
of  the  Province,  or  afiecting  ilie  e\|>i  ii<litures  of  the  same,  shall  be 
acted  on  by  Synod  until  it  shall  lia\  e  lieon  considered  and  reported 
upon  by  the  Committee  on  Finance. 

ORDER  OF  BUSINESS. 

Rule  48.— After  the  organization  of  Synod,  the  following  shall  be 
the  order  of  business: 

1.  Presentation  of  reports  of  the  I'rovincial  Elders'  Conference, 

and  of  all  otiier  boards,  officers  or  agents,  appointed  by  pre- 
vious Synods  to  act  during  the  recess  between  Synods. 

2.  Presentation  of  memorials  or  communications  from  the  Churches 

of  the  Province. 


73 

3.  Presentation  of  memorials  or  communications  from  individuals. 

4.  Presentation  of  reports  of  Pastors  or  Delegates,  on  the  State  of 
Religion. 

.■Vfter  the  foregoing  are  disposed  of,  the  regular  order  each  day, 
unless  otiierwise  directed  l)y  Synod,  shall  be  : 

1.  Reports  of  Standing  Committees. 

2.  Reports  of  Special  Committees. 

3.  Petitions,  memorials,  or  resolutions  from  members. 

4.  Other  general  business. 

PROTKST. 

Rule  49.— When  one  or  more  members  desire  to  protest  against 
a  resolution  or  other  act  of  Synod,  and  to  have  this  protest  inserted 
on  the  .Journal,  he  or  they  shall,  within  two  Synodal  days,  present 
it  in  wriiiuiT.  with  his  or  their  name  or  names  afli.xed,  to  the  Secre- 
tary of  tlie  Synod,  to  be  by  him  read  before  the  Synod  and  entered 
on  the  Journal. 

ALTERATIONS  OF  THE  KITLES. 

Rule  50.— The  rules  may  at  any  time  be  altered,  amended,  or  sus- 
pended, by  a  two-third  vote  of  the  members  present. 

The  Provincial  Eldkrs'  Conference. 
a.  general  rules  and  principles. 
The  Supreme  Executive  Boards  of  the  Individual  Provinces. 

The  supreme  control  and  administratiou  of  all  matters  1 
which  concern  the  Province  a.s  such,  is  committed  to  the 
Provincial  Elders'  Conference  of  each  Province.  All  Pro- 
vincial Elders'  Conferences  are  responsible  to  the  Provin- 
cial Synods  of  their  Provinces,  and  are  accountable  to  the 
same  for  their  administration. 

The  Provincial  Elders'  Conferences  are  elected  in  a  dif- 
l(  rent  manner  in  the  several  Provinces  of  the  Unity, 
namely  : 

I.  In  the  British  and  the  American  Provinces,  according  2 
to   the   constitutional    rules  determined    on   for  those 
Provinces. 

[The  remainder  of  this  section  concerns  the  German  Pro- 
vince only.]    (Synodal  Results,  1879,  §  80.) 

The  Fights  and  Duties  of  Provincial  Elders'  Conferences. 

The  rights  and  dutie.s  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Confer- 
ences are  the  following  : 

I.  The  care  for  the  conscientious  carrying  out  in  their  ;j 
Provinces  of  the  resolutions  of  the  General  Synods. 


7  [ 

1  2.  The  supreme  control  of  all  provincial  affairs  which 
fall  within  the  scope  of  Provincial'Synods,  as  such,  in  ac- 
cordance, liowever,  with  the  principles  and  rules  laid  down 
by  the  Provincial  Synods  concerned.  In  extraordinary 
cases,  however,  a  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  can  act  on 
its  own  responsibility  :  but  a  special  report  thereupon  must 
be  laid  before  the  next  Pioviiicinl  Synod. 

2  3.  The  appoiiitiuent  and  snpei-iiitendence  of  all  laborers 
and  ministei's  of  the  Provinces  concerned,  who  consequently 
owe  obedience  to  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  of  their 
Province. 

3  i.  The  right  to  depose  a  minister  who  acts  in  opposition 
to  the  principles  and  rules  of  the  Brethren's  Unity. 

4  5.  The  right  to  convene  Provincial  Synods  in  urgent 
cases  and,  in  addition,  to  determine  time  and  place  of 
meeting.    (Synodal  Results,  1879,  §  81.) 

b.  PROAaNCIAL  CONSTITUTION,   ADOPTED,  1856; 
APPROVED,  1857. 

Duties  and  Functions  of  the  Provincial  Elders^  Conference. 

5  The  following  rules  are  in  force  for  the  Provincial 
Elders'  Conference  of  the  Northern  District  of  the  Ameri- 
can Province. 

Their  duties  are  : 

a.  To  appoint  one  of  their  number  to  act  as  President. 

b.  To  see  that  the  enactments  of  General  Synods  are 
faithfully  carried  out  in  the  Province. 

c.  To  appoint  and  control  all  ministers  and  ptherLservants, 
of  the  Province. 

Note. — An  exception  is  to  be  made  in  the  case  of  the 
first  Professor  in  the  Theological  Seminary,  who  may  be 
appointed  directly  by  the  Provincial  Synod. 

[The  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  is  empowered  to 
make  and  fill  vacancies  in  said  office.    (Journal,  1864, 
_p.  75. )] 

d.  To  convene  Provincial  Synods  in  cases  of  emergency. 


75 


€.  To  lulminist*;!'  the  «;(>veniiiieiit  of  the  Church  in  the 
Provinee  generally,  under  sucli  rules  and  refjulations  as 
shall  be  adopted  lioni  time  to  time  by  Provincial  Synods. 
(Journal,  lSr)(j.  pf).  03.  M  :  Synodal  Results,  1857,  §  6"), 
A.  p.  62.) 

Alteratiom  of  the  Constitution. 

That  the  following  article  be  added  to  the  Constitution 
of  the  Church  of  the  Northei  n  American  Province  : 

''Any  proposed  alteration  in  the  Constitution,  as  the  1 
same  is'set  forth  in  the  Results  of  the  Geiu  ial  Synod  of 
•  18.57.  and  in  so  far  as  alterations  in  the  Constitution  are 
within  the  power  of  the  Provincial  Synod,  shall  be  referred 
to  a  Committee  of  uine,  to  be  elected  by  ballot  :  and  w^hen 
this  Committee  shall  have  reported  upon  the  proposed 
alteration,  the  same  shall  be  read,  as  reported,  shall  l)e  dis- 
cussed in  Synod,  and  shall  tlien  be  voted  upon  on  three 
several  days,  and  shall  be  considered  as  adopted  only  in 
case,  at  each  reading  and  voting,  three-fourths  of  the  mem- 
bers present  vote  in  its  favor."    (Journal,  1861,  pp.  57,  68.) 

C.   PROVINCIAL  BY-LAWS. 

S  70.  .S.  h.    The  Provincial  Elders'  Conference. 

I.  That  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  shall  consist  2 
of  three  members  chosen  from  among  the  ordained  minis- 
ters of  the  Church,  at  least  one  of  whom  shall  hold  no 
other  office,  either  as  Pastor  of  a  Congregation  or  as  Prin- 
cipal of  a  Church  School. 

II.  That  the  three  members  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  3 
Confei  ence  should  reside  within  easy  reach  of  one  another, 

so  that  every  meeting  can  be  attended  by  the  entire  Board. 

III.  That  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  be  urged  to  4 
take  all  possible  steps  to  relieve  a  second  member  of  the 
Board  from  the  necessity  of  holding  anothei'  office.  (Jour- 
nal. 1888,  p.  111.) 

IV.  That  tlie  term  of  office  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  5 
Conference  shall  extend  to  the  convening  of  the  next  Pro- 
vincial Synod.    (Journal,  1888,  pp.  90,  110.) 

Rule  ft  for  the  Election  of  the  Provincial  Elders^  Conference. 

I.  That  the  election  of  the  Provincial  Polders'  Conference  G 
be  by  ballot,  and  that  the  three  members  be  voted  for  on 
the  same  ticket. 


1  II.  That  two-thirds  of  all  the  votes  cast  be  necessary  to 
a  choice.    (Journal,  1888,  pp.  64,  76. ) 

FiJlhiff  of  Vocmieies  in  the  Prorincial  Elders'  Conference. 

2  X'acaiu  ics  ^yllich  may  occur  in  the  Provincial  Elders' 
Confciciicc  durinji-  the  recess  of  the  Provincial  Synod, 
shall  be  tilled  in  the  following  manner : 

8  1.  The  remaining  member  or  members  shall  at  once  issue 
a  circular  to  the  ex-offirio  members  of  the  Provincial  Synod, 
and  to  the  congregations  ol' llie  Province  entitled  to  lay 
representation  at  Piovincial  Sx  nods.  appointing  an  election 
to  till  the  vacancy  (w  x  acaiicies. 

4  2.  As  soon  as  ])()ssihle  after  tlic  ic('ei])t  of  such  circular,  . 
there  shall  be  chosen  in  eacli  congregation  entitled  to  rep- 
resentation at  Provincial  Synods,  a<-<  ()rdinL;  to  the  rules 
governing  such  cases,  as  many  electors  and  as  many  alter- 
nates as  such  congi'egation  was  entitled  to  send  to  the  Pro- 
vincial Synod  last  held,  which  elecldi  s  shall  serve  until  the 
vacancy  in  the  Provincial  I]lders"  ('onterence  shall  have 
been  tilled.  The  certificates  of  election  of  the  electors 
and  alternates  of  each  congregation  shall  be  sent  in  to  the 
Pro\'incial  Elders'  Conference,  duly  certified  by  the  Chair- 
man and  Secretary  of  the  Council. 

5  3.  Within  three  calendar  weeks  from  the  receipt  of  the 
circular,  the  ballots  of  the  ex  officio  members  of  the  Pro- 
vincial Synod  and  the  electors  chosen  by  the  congregations 
entitled  to  representation  at  the  Provincial  Synod  shall  be 
sent,  sealed  and  endorsed  with  the  name  of  the  sender,  to 
the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference,  who  shall  receive  them, 
but  break  no  seal  until  the  time  designated  in  the  following 
section  (4.) 

iS  4.  On  the  twenty-eighth  day  after  mailing  this  circular, 
or  sooner  if  all  the  votes  are  received  before  that  time,  the 
remaining  member  or  members  shall  add  their  own  ballots, 
and  shall  open  and  count  the  votes,  whether  all  have  been 
received  or  not,  in  the  presence  of  not  less  than  five  other 
brethren,  and  the  brother  receiving  the  highest  number  of 
votes  cast,  provided  it  be  at  the  same  time  an  absolute 
majoi  iry.  sliall  be  elected  to  fill  the  vacancy. 

7  f).  Slnmld  thei'c  be  two  vacancies  to  be  filled,  the  two 
mend)ers  shall  be  voted  I'oi'  on  one  ticket. 

8  ().  Should  a-  brother  oi-  hrethi-en  having  a;n  absolute 
majority  (h'cline  to  serve,  or  should  no  brother  receive  an 
absolute  majority,  or  should  two  of  them  have  the  same 
majority,  a  new  ballot  shall  be  ordered  by  the  Provincial 


77 


Elders'  Conference  in  a  circular  giving  the  result  of  the 
previous  election,  which  shall  be  repeated,  if  necessary,  as 
herein  prescribed  until  the  vacancy  or  vacancies  are  filled, 
provided,  however,  that  on  the  second  and  subsequent  bal- 
lots, the  seals  sliall  be  broken  and  the  votes  counted  on  the 
tweiity-liisf  day  after  luailiiiji'  tlie  circulars  calling  for  said 
ballots,  the  votes  in  the  second  and  subsequent  ballots  be- 
ing contined  to  the  nine  > !))  brethren  having  the  highest 
number  of  votes  on  the  first  ballot. 

7.  All  official  documents  in  connection  with  the  election,  1 
as  issued  by  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference,  shall  like- 
wise be  inserted  in  The  Moravian  and  Der  Brueder  Botschafter- 
as  soon  as  possible  after  the  issuing  of  each  circular. 
(Journal,  1888,  pp.  99,  100,  109. ) 

OrganizcUion  of  the  Provincial  Elders^  Conference. 

That  the  ProA'incial  Elders'  Conference  shall  have  power  2 
to  organize  by  electing  a  President.  Secretary  and  Trea- 
surer.   (Journal,  1861,  pp.  43,  14 ;  1878,  pp.  114.  115; 
1881,  p.  63.) 

The  Minutes  of  the  Provincial  Elders^  Conference. 

I.  That  the  minutes  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  :5 
shall  be  kept  in  full,  and  the  vote  on  all  calls  and  appoint- 
ments shall  be  entered  therein  by  yeas  and  nays. 

II.  That  the  minutes  of  the  Pi  oviiicial  Elders'  Confer-  4 
ence  shall  be  open  to  the  insi)ecrion  of  any  member  of 
Synod  during  its  sittings.    (Journal,  1S7S.  pp.  I'yO,  152.) 

Annual  Statistics. 

That  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  be  in.structed  to  5 
prepare  for  publication  annual  statistical  tables  of  the 
churches  in  our  Pi-ovince,  exhibiting  the  number  of  com- 
municants, of  children,  the  whole  number  of  souls,  the  in- 
crease or  decrease  in  each  church,  the  number  of  Sun- 
day-scholars and  Suudav-school  teachers.  (Journal.  1856, 
p.  100. ) 

Annual  Succinct  BepoH. 

That  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  draw  iip  a  sue-  a 
cinct  report,  each  year,  for  publication  in  the  congregations, 
containing  a  survey  of  the  condition  and  activity  of  the 
Church,  during  the  past  yi'ar,  and  such  other  matters  as 
they  may  think  well  to  bring  to  the  attention  of  our  mem- 
bershij)."   iJouiiial.  1S()S,  ])p.  110.  114.) 


?8 

§  S4.    Official  Visitations. 

1     J.  Tliat  the  (  (nifiictiatious  should  be  visited,  as  frequeutly 

as  practi('al)h\  by  a,  iiieiiiber  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Oon- 

fenMice.    (.loiinial,  t8.S4,  pp.  2H,  29. 
ti      11.  That  tlie  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  be  permitted 

to  ajjpoiiit  another  brother  to  liold  a  special  visitation  in 

their  name.    (Journal,  1858.  pp.  7(i,  77.  > 

3  III.  The  commission  of  a  brother  who  holds  an  official 
visit  in  a  congregation  must  be  expressed  in  the  credentials 
which  he  brings  from  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference, 
and  the  church-boards  and  congregations  are  expected  to 
receive  him  with  love  and  confidence,  and  to  facilitate,  as 
much  as  possible,  the  execution  of  his  commission. 
(Synodal  Eesults,  1848,  §  142.) 

Districts  and  District  Synods. 

4  I,  That  the  American  Province  of  the  Moravian  Church 
of  the  United  Brethren  may  be  divided  into  Districts  by  the 
Provincial  Synod,  the  number  of  which  shall  be  deter- 
mined, and  the  boundaries  thereof  altered  and  enlarged, 
from  time  to  time,  as  the  Provincial  Synod  may  deem 
expedient. 

5  II.  That  the  Provincial  Synod  may  organize  District 
Synods  in  each  District,  investing  them  with  such  power, 
legislative  and  otherwise,  and  constituted  of  such  members 
as  the  Provincial  Synod  may  determine  ;  provided  that 
congregations  shall  always  be  entitled  to  representation  in 
such  District  Synods,  and  every  congregation  to  at  least 
one  lay  delegate,  and  that  no  District  Synod  shall  exercise 
any  authority  or  do  any  act  which  has  not  been  authorized 
by  the  Piovincial  Synod,  or  which  by  the  Constitution  and 
Rules  of  the  Unitas  Fratrum  exceeds  the  power  of  the 
Provincial  Synod. 

O  III.  That  any  changes  in  the  Constitution  of  the  Ameri- 
can Pr()\'ince  which  shall  hereafter  be  i)ro])Osed  by  Pro- 
vincial Synods,  shall  be  submitted  to  the  Department  of 
the  Unity  of  the  Unity's  Elders'  Coufei  ence  for  their  de- 
cision, whether  or  not  they  conflict  with  any  fundamental 
principle  of  doctrine,  ritual  or  government  of  the  Unitas 
Fratinm. 


79 


IV.  That  Kesolntioii  III,  in  respect  to  changes  in  the  1 
(Constitution  of  this  Province,  was,  and  is  meant  to  refer  to 
those  changes  only,  which  may  grow  out  of  the  general 
prin('iples  hiid  down  in  the  two  preceding  resolutions. 
(Journal,  1868,  pp.  74,  75,  78.  79,  117;  Synodal  Results, 
1S69.  Appendix  C.  (J  :  1879.  p.  163.) 

PKOVIXCIAL  BV-LAWS. 

I.  That  District  Sj'nods  shall  be  held  twice  in  each  Dis-  2 
trict  in  the  interval  between  Provincial  Synods. 

II.  That  the  District  Synods  which  shall  be  held  twice  in  3 
each  District  in  the  intervals  between  the  regular  Provin- 
cial Synods,  according  to  Paragraph  I,  shall  meet  in  the 
second  and  fourth  years  of  that  interval,  unless  an  extra 
Provincial  Synod  be  called  in  either  of  those  years. 

III.  That  the  Province  shall  be  divi(l(Ml  into  four  Dis-  4 
tricts  :  the  first  and  second  to  be  constituted  as  at  present  ; 
the  third  to  consist  of  all  the  congregations  in  Ohio,  Indi- 
ana, Illinois,  Iowa  and  Missouri ;  the  fourth  to  consist  of 
all  the  congregations  in  Wisconsin,  Minnesota,  Michigan 
and  Dakota. 

[a.  That  the  churches  of  Xew  York  City,  Brooklvn, 
Staten  Island  and  Utica,  X.  Y.,  Elizabeth,  J.,  Bethle- 
hem, South  Bethlehem,  Coveville,  Nazareth,  Hopedale, 
Schoeneck,  Emmaus  and  Easton,  Pa.,  constitute  the  First 
District. 

b.  That  the  rest  of  the  Pennsylvania  churches,  with 
Graceham,  Mechanicstown,  Md.,  and  Palmyra,  Riverside 
and  Egg  Harbor  City  of  New  Jersey,  constitute  Ihe  Second 
District. 

c.  That  the  churches  in  Ohio,  Indiana,  Illinois,  Iowa  and 
Missoui  i  constitute  the  Third  District. 

d.  That  the  Wisconsin,  Minnesota,  Michigan  and  Da- 
kota churches  constitute  the  Fourth  District.] 

Should  additional  congregations  be  organized,  the  Pro- 
vincial Elders'  Conference  shall,  until  otherwise  directed 
by  the  Provincial  Synod,  designate  the  Disti  iet  to  which 
each  shall  belong.  (  Journal,  1870,  pp.  7.").  77  :  1X7(5.  pp. 
o9,  61,  64  ;  1884,  pp.  29,  30,  49,  50.  52  ;  1888,  pp.  64.  72. ) 

IV.  That  the  following  shall  be  entitled  to  seats  in  the  5 
District  Synods  : 

1.  All  Bishops  of  the  Province. 

2.  The  members  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference. 


80 


3.  All  ordained  ministers  holding  their  office  by  appoint- 
ment of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference,  in  active  service 
in  the  District. 

4.  A  lay  (h^legate  from  its  own  number  to  represent  the 
Board  of  Church  J^xteiision. 

5.  The  hiy  (It  lcgates  of  the  several  congregations  in  the 
District.  Kacli  ol'  the  Ilonic  Mission  congregations  shall 
send  one  (Iclcgalc  :  v;u-h  scH'-siistaiiiing  coiigrcgaf ion  hav- 
ing less  I  hail  l.^o  coiiiiimuicaiit  mcmbei  s  shall  send  one 
delegate  :  caeli  (  (nigregation  having  loO  communicants  and 
less  tiiau  .'!()(>,  I\vi>  delrgates;  each  congregation  having  300 
and  less  than  .lOi),  tliiee  delegates  ;  and  for  congregations 
having  500  communicants  or  more  the  last-named  ratio  be- 
tween communicant  members  and  delegates  shall  be 
observed. 

1  V.  That  these  District  Synods  shall,  have  the  same 
dutie.s.  functions  and  poweis  as  are  now  committed  to 
the  Distiiet  Conferences,  namely:  That  it  shall  be  their 
duly,  ill  all  proper  ways  to  promote  vital  religion  within 
their  I  )ist  l  icts ;  to  examine  into,  develop  and  strengthen 
the  work  nf  tin-  Cliureh  therein,  collect  information  relat- 
ing to  matters  of  Clmreh  aetivity  within  their  several  Dis- 
tricts, hear  complaiiits  and  grievances,  examine  into  the 
causes  thereof',  cndcax  nr  tn  adjust  and  reconcile  differences, 
examine  how  the  enactments  of  Provincial  and  District 
Synods  are  carried  out  in  the  District,  stimulate  systematic 
beneticence  and  contributions  to  the  Chuicli's  wants,  and 
encourage  collections  in  aid  of  special  Church  activity 
within  the  Districts  ;  and  they  may  dii-ect  and  control  the 
expenditures  of  all  moneys  raised  within  the  District 
through  their  instrumentality  or  committed  to  them — with 
the  addition,  that  they  shall  have  the  jxiwer  to  legislate  on 
all  matters  ])ei  tainiiig  to  their  Districts ;  provided  that 
such  legislation  does  not  in  any  wise  conllict  with  the 
powers  or  enact  meiits  of  the  General  or  Provincial  Synods. 

2  VI.  That  the  time  and  place  of  meeting  of  the  first  Dis- 
trict Synod  in  each  District  shall  be  designated  by  the  Pro- 
vincial Eldeis'  Confereuce,  but  thereafter  each  District 
Synod  shall  itself  fix  the  time  and  i)lace  of  subsequent 
meetings,  and  may  adopt  its  own  organization  and  rules  of 
ordei'.    (.louinal.  ISSS.  pp.  (14,  <i."),  71-74.) 

;j  Thai  all  legislal  ion  now  st  aiiding  with  reference  to 

the  former  District  ( 'onfeieuces  not  conflicting  with  the 
legislation  of  this  Synod,  shall  ax)ply  to  District  Synods, 
and  all  former  enactments  of  Synod  contlicting  with  such 


SI 


legislation  1k'  and  arc  luMvhv  icscindcd.    (  Jonrnai.  1S8S, 
p.  89.) 

VIII.  Resolved,    That  the  i)r(\sent   District    Boards   of  1 
Church  Extension,  wherever  theie  are  such,  hi;  continued 
in  office  until  the  first  meetinji  of  the  District  Synods. 
(Journal,  1S8S,  p.  Km.) 

IX.  FeJtoJrrd,  That  the   Provincial  Polders'  Conference  2 
appoint  a  District  Board  of  Church  Extension  fo)'  the 
Second  District  to  serve  until  the  iiieetinii  of  the  Distiict 
Synod.    (Journal.  18SS.  p.  UO.) 

X.  That  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  Disti  id  S\  nods  to  furnish  ;{ 
copies  of  their  proceedinji,s  to  the  Pi()\  incial  Elders'  Con- 
fereuce.  wheiun'er  so  required.    (Journal,  1870.  pp.  78.  79  ; 
1888,  p.  89. ) 

XI.  That  it  shall  he  the  iiuperati ve  duty  (tf  one  meinbei'  4 
of  the  Provincial  Kldeis'  ( 'onfcrencc  t  o  attend  cacli  District 
Synod,  unless  cii'cuinstanccs  absolutely  i)ic\fnt,  in  which 
case  they  may  appoint  a  delegate.    (Journal,  1870,  pp.  78. 
79  ;  1888,  p.  89.) 

XII.  That  the  Chairmen  of  the  District  Boards  of  (^hni  ch  r* 
Extension   shall  be  ex  officio  members   of   the  District 
Synods  with  all  the  .rights  and   privileiics  of  nicmhcrs 
elected.    (Journal,  1878.  ])p.  1.50,  1.52  ;  1888.  \>.  s't.  , 

XIII.  That  the  rule  enacted  by  this  Synod  with  regard  ii 
to  the  traveling  expenses  of  members  of  Provincial  Synods 
shall  also  hold  good  with  regard  to  the  members  of  the 
District  Synods.    (Journal,  1878,  pp.  144.  14() ;  1888.  p. 
89.) 

THE  FINANCES  OF  THE  AMERICAN  PROVINCE. 

Control  and  Objects  of  the  Smtentation  Fund. 

The  control  of  the  Sustentation  Diacony,  including  the  7 
diacouies  of  the  educational   institutions,  is  under  the 
supervision  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference. 

The  Sustentation  Diacony  has  for  its  object  the  making  H 
of  suitable  provision  for  the  wants  of  this  section  of  the 
Church,  in  as  far  as  it  constitutes  a  whole.    It  is  its  busi- 
ness, therefore, 

[a.  To  pay  the  salaries  of  siu-li  members  of  the  Fro\  iiicial  Eklers' 
Conference  as  hold  no  other  oftice,  and  to  discharge  the  iinadvoidal)l(' 
expenses  of  the  Conference.] 

b.  To  sup])ly  the  pensions  due  to  superannuated  min- 
isters. 

0 


c.  To  defray  the  expenses  iucxirred  by  the  piiblication  of 
our  periodicals. 

[d.  To  aid  the  more  destitute  oongregations  to  defray  the  ex|)etiis(!s 
incident  to  the  maintenance  of  their  ministers.] 

[e.  To  aid  such  ministers  as  cannot  obtain  a  competent  sui)port 
from  their  own  congrejjations.] 

To  furnish  means  for  tlic  nccessjiry  i;-eneial  education 
of  tile  ciiihlren  of  our  ministris,  liic  salaries  of  none  of  tlie 
niiiiisteis  heiii<i;  sufliciently  ample  to  enahh'  tliem  to  give 
tiieir  cliildicn  a  respectabie  education. 

[//.  To  prox  ide  for  the  further  education  of  yonnj>'  men  cngajrcd  in 
■A  course  of  liicological  study.] 

Wliatever  has  reference  to  the  education  of  sucli  as  are 
mentioned  under  /  and  is  included  in  what  is  usually 
termed,  the  diaconies  of  our  educational  institutiom.  (Jouriml. 
1847,      51,  52.) 

[Note. — By  tlu'  action  of  the  Synods  of  1S7(),  (Journal, 
p.  SI.  III.  )  subdivisions  /I  and  r.  and  l»y  tliat  of  the  Synod 
of  ISSl  I  ,)()iii  n;il.  11)1.  :>L'.  ."i.;.  T)!!.  7'-'.  71.  7.").  77.  )  subdivi- 
sions and  (/.  wcic  j ii  act  icallx  stricken  from  this  li.st  of 
the  objeels  of  llu'  Siist  (Mit  at  ion  t'lind.  uiidei'  which  tlu'  con- 
gregations of  Bethlehem.  Xazareth  and  Lititz  made  over  a 
part  of  their  pro)>erty.] 

AN  ACT 

To  Inc()i-]>(>r(ite  the  Board  of  Elders  of  t/w  Xorlhcni  Diocese  of  the 
Cliii.rc.Ii.  of  till-  r)il/r(/  /!rr//ir<'i<  in  tlic  rxitcd  Stdtrs  of  Aviericii. 

1  Section  I.  —  lie  it  cniiricil  ii\  i he  Senate  and  House  of  Representa- 
tives of  the  CoiniiiMiiH  eallh  oi'  I'ei i ns \- 1  \  an ia ,  in  (4ener<al  .\sseml)lv 
met,  and  it  is  lieicl>\  enacle.l  l)\  (lie  ai'itli(M  it\-  of  the  same 

2  That  the  present  inianluis  of  Ihe  I'.dard  i.f  I '.  i  ( ■!  h  ren  who  for  the 
lime  liein-  :iie  a|ip<Mnled  1 1 1  s  u  peri  1 1  ti  I H  I  t  he  seei  i  la  r  a  lit  1  spiritual  con- 
cerns (jf  tile  Noi  iliei  II  lii.x  .'se  III'  tlie  ( ■|iureii  ,,r  tlic  United  Brethren, 
coninieiilx  ealleil  Mniavians,  in  tiii^  rniled  Slates  of  America,  to 
wit  :  .IdlmC.  .lae,,l,s<,ii,  li<Mir>  A .  Sli  n  1 1  z  an- 1  1' 1 1  i  1  i  p  1 1.  Giepi),  and  their 
sueeessdi  s  as  I  lie \  ina  \  lie  t'reni  time  ie  I  inn'  appointed  in  accordance 
Willi  Ihe  (  unsi  niiiiKn,  lules  and  reuulaii.ins  ..f  ihe  said  Church  of 
the  I  niied  P.relhreii  as  llie\-  now  exisi  ei  may  lie  liei'eafter  modified 
or  allereil.  shall  lie  anil  are  liereli\-  deelareil  i.i  lie  a  bodv  corporate 
to  lie  l<ii.>\\  II  li\  llie  name,  si  vie  and  lille  .,1  "  The  Hoard  of  Elders  of 
the  Noilliein  Diucese  (if  Ihe  Cliiireh  (if  llie  f  n i I ei I  Itrethrcuin  the 
Unileil  Stales  111'  A  mei  iea,  ■  anil  li\'  thai  name  shall  ha\  e  per|)Ctual  SUC- 
ccssiun.  lie  a  I  lie  ami  eapal.le  in  law  In  sue  ami  liesiicil,  pleatl  and  he  ini- 
pleadeil  in  llie  ('luiris  ul  lliis  ( 'nnimunw  call  h  and  elsewhere,  to  have 
and  use  a  .  nmnii.n  seal,  ami  to  make  and  establish  such  by-laws  and 
onlinanees  as  shall  lie  neeessarx'  and  prii|>er  for  the  reiruhition  of  the 
temporal  concerns  of  the  said  Xorlhern  Diocese  of  the  said  Church 
of  the  United  Jirethren,  for  the  support  of  acting  and  superannuated 
ministers  of  the  said  ('hurch,  for  the  promotion  of  religion  by  edn- 


83 


cation,  foreign  and  donieslic  missions,  Jind  otlierwise;  Provided, 
That  notliinir  l)e  done,  in  pnrsuaiute  of  the  powers  and  privilef?es  here- 
inbefore granted,  contrary  or  repn^nant  to  this  Aet  and  to  the  Con- 
stitntion  and  laws  of  tiiis  Coninionwealtli.  And  provided  fHi-ther, 
That  all  the  aets  of  the  said  Board  of  Klders  of  the  Xorthern  Dioeese 
of  the  Chnrch  of  the  United  Brethren,  in  the  United  States  of  Amer- 
ica, he  in  eonformitv  to  the  rnles,  rejiiihitions  and  principles  of  the 
said  Church  of  the  United  Brethren  in  the  United  States  of  America 
and  not  in  anv  wise  in(  <ii'.sisient  with  (he  same. 

Sec.  II.— Thai  the  I'l.-iM.ni  ..I' said  Board  of  Klders  shall  heap-  1 
pointed  in  acconi.inrc  witii  iln  rules  and  regulations  of  the  said 
Ohurcli  of  the  Unile,!  liiuihn  ii.  and  that  said  Board  of  Klders  or  a 
majority  of  them  may,  if  they  deem  it  necessary,  eleet  or  appoint  a 
treasurer  and  such  otlier  ottieers  as  uia\  hi'  n.M-essary.  at  such  times 
and  such  places  and  to  serve  for  sucli  a  |n  riiiil  as  ihe\  may  deem 
convenient  and  necessary,  or  as  may  l>e  ordered  l)y  the  refiiilations 
or  l)\  -laws  (it  the  said  Church. 

Ski.  111.  — That  the  said  Board  of  Elders  and  their  successors  l)y  2 
the  name,  tith'  and  style  aforesaid  shall  he  able  and  capalile  in  law 
to  purchase,  receive,  hold  and  enjoy  all  such  hinds,  tenements,  be- 
quests, annuities  and  gifts  as  may  lie  at  an\-  lime  sold,  conM  yeil,  be- 
queathed, given  or  granted  to  it  eitliei-  aiisolutelN  ur  in  trust, ^and 
have  power  to  sell  or  otherwise  dis|iose  ot  the  same  ;  I'roriiled,  That 
the  said  corporators  shall  not  at  any  time  hold  or  absolutely  possess 
property  or  estate  real,  [lersonal  nv  mixed,  exceeding  the  annual 
value  oi'  Twelve  Thousand  Dollars. 

Sec.  n'.— That  no  misnomer  of  said  corpnratinn  and  l lici r  siicces-  ;{ 
sors  shall  defeat  orannulany  gift,giani.  dcv  isc  ,,v  l)(-.|Ucsi  to  ur  from 
said  corporation;  Provided  the  intent  ot  the  (lartx  oi  parties  shall 
snfYiciently  appear  upon  the  face  of  the  iiift.  i^rant,  will  or  other  writ- 
ing, whereby  any  estate  or  interest  was  intended  to  pass  to  or  from  the 
said  corporation. 

JOHN  CESSNA, 
Si><'<tker  <if  the  Hou.tc  of  RepreHcntativeN. 
BEN.TAMIN  MATTHIAS, 

Speaker  of  the  Sejiate. 

Ai)proved,  The  twenty-ninth  day  of  .March,  X.  I),  eighteen  hundred 
and  fiftv-onc. 

WM.  F.  .K^HNSTON. 


A  SUPPLEMENT  TO  AX  ACT 

Entitled  An  Act  lo  Tnc.orportitc  the  Board  of  Elders  oj  the  Sorthern 
Diocexc  of  the  Church  of  the  T'nited  Brethren  in  the  T'nited  St<ite.'i  of 
Ameriexf',  approved  the  ftventi/-ninth  dai/  of  Mmeh.  Anno  Domini  one 
flionsfind  eight  hundred  and fifti/-one. 

Skc.  I.— Be  it  enacted  by  the  Senate  and  House  of  Representatives  4 
of  the  Commonwealth  of  Pennsylvania  in  <  ieneral  Assembly  met, 
and  it  is  herebv  enacted  bv  the  aulhoritv  of  the  same 

That  so  mucii  of  the  thiid  section  of  an  .Vet  entitleil  An  Act  to  In-  .-j 
corporate  the  Board  of  Klders  of  the  Northern  Dine,  s,  ,,1  ihc  i  hur.  li 
of  the  United  Brethren  in  tlie  United  States  of  .Vniei  i'-  ',  aiiprox  cl  the 
twenty-ninth  day  of  March,  in  the  year  of  our  Lord,  one-thousand 
eight  hundred  and  fifty-one,  as  provides  that  the  said  Corporators 
shall  not  at  any  time  hold  or  absolutely  possess  property  or  estate 


S4 


I'cal,  porsoiiiil  or  luixt'd,  cxcooiling  tlic  ammal  value  of  Twelve 
'riiiiusaiul  Oollars,  lie  ami  Ihe  saiuc  iis  liei-oby  I'epealed,  aiul  that  the 
sai.l  ( 'or|Hii  :ii.M  s  -h  ill  II., I  at  aii\  time  hoU'l  or  absolutely  possess 
pio|K  ri\  1.1  (  siair  ii'  il,  p.  i--<.iial  oi-  niixeil,  exceeding  tlio  annual 
value  of  TwiaUx'  'I'liousaiKl  Ddlais. 

(J.  XKLSOX  SMITH, 

.Spriikcr  />rt>  fcm.  (if  (hr  Hoii.se  of  /i('/>rr.'<riitfitircfi. 

WILLIAM  H.  WKLSH, 

,Sj)<-tik<-r  of  the  Senate. 

Approved,  The  tentli  dav  of  Keliruarv,' Anuo  Domini  one  thousand 
eiaht  hundred  and  tittv-ei'i> lit. 

W.M.  K.  I'ACKi:!!. 
The  Firscnt  Financial  Crisis. 

1  1.  That  we  acknowlcdiit' (he  prcsLMit  difficulties 
of  the  Cluircli  as  a  1  )iviii(' cliast isciiicnt  iiiliictcd  because 
we  have  h'ft  tlie  first  love,  zeal  and  t'aitli  of  our  fatiiers. 

2  11.  Tliat  while  we  assert  our  full  and  un(|ualitied  convic- 
tion, tliat  it  is  "not  by  niiii'lit,  nor  by  ])owe)',  but  by  His 
Spirit"  tliat  tiie  Lord  lie^ins.  carries  and  revives  His 
work,  we  likewise  wonid  realize  the  force  of  tliis  solemn 
trill  li  also,  that  tlie  Lord  requires  of  all  His  servants  that 
the\  should  be  wise  and  faithful.  (Journal.  188l),  pp.  10;"), 
lOli'.  ) 

;5  III.  That  a  list  of  sn])sci  ii)tions  be  opened  in  excry  con- 
grejiation.  for  the  relief  of  the  present  difficulties  of  the 
Snstentation  Fund,  that  is.  to  icstore  the  cajiital  which  has 
been  taken  up  to  meet  the  (lelieieiicies.  which  list  shall  be 
])laced  in  the  hands  of  the  ministers  and  ciiurcli  boards, 
and  remain  o[)en  for  one  year  for  t  hose  members  or  Boards 
of  Trustees  who  may  wish  time  to  make  up  their  contribu- 
tions— such  subscriptions  not  tfi  interfere  with  the  stated 
Chui'ch  Collections.    (Journal.  ISSI.  jip.  ;!  .  di'.  7.").) 

4  IV.  That  the  Joint  Board,  consist  in-  of  the  Provincial 
Elders'  Conference  and  the  Adv  isory  Hoard,  be  and  it  is 
hercliy  i list  i  net cd  lourj^call  measures  which  may  tend  to 
increaM'  tiie  capital  of  the  Snstentation  Fund,  whether  by 
means  of  the  resolution  of  the  Synod  of  1881,  as  found  in 
the  Provincial  Digest,  p.  84,  3 — or  otherwise.  (Journal, 
18SI.  lip.        4.").  ) 

5  V.  That,  as  the  future  financial  basis,  in  so  far  as  the 
cuireiit  expenses  are  concerned,  contributions  from  the 
Boardiiii;  selionls  shall  lie  left  onl  of  account,  and  that  the 
income  of  t  he  Siist cut  at  ion  shall  lie  so  increased  in  other 
ways,  and  its  outlay  so  diminished,  that  the  latter  will 
be  annuallv  covered  by  the  former.  (Journal,  1881,  pp. 
64,  72.) 


85 


VI.  That  in  lutui  e  no  Boarding  Scliool  be  ox])(>('tpd  to  1 
contribute  to  the  Snstentation  Fnnd  until  its  iiidchtcdiiess  is 
practieally  extinguislied.    (Journal.  1.SS4.        .M.  11.  4.").) 

VII.  That  anew  account  tbi' Linden  ilall  hf  dpcned  in  2 
the  books,  and  charged  with  s'jo.ooo.  hut  that  this  inslitn 
tion  be  placed  on  precisely  the  same  loot inii  as  the  Publica- 
tion Concern,  in  so  far  thai  it  sliall  be  cxix'cted  to  contribute 
annually  oidy  such  ainouiil  as  its  condition  shall  wairant, 
and  that  its  annual  conti  ibutions  shall  be  reiiarded  as  part 
of  the  regular  income  of  the  Sustentatiou  Fund.  (Journal, 
1884.  pp.  42.  43.  ) 

VIII.  That  20  per  cent,  of  the  annual  surplus  of  the  re- 
eeipts  of  tlu'  Snstentation  Fund  be  set  aside  as  a  Eeserve 
Fund.    (Journal,  1884,  pp.  43,  45.) 

IX.  That  the  suri)lus  income  of  the  Snstentation  Fund,  -t 
after  deducting  the  chaigcs  fur  Taxes.  K'cpairs.  Sustenta- 
tion-stipends  and  the  special  appKijn  ial  imis  made  l)y  this 
Synod,  be  divided  c(|nally  bet  ween  tlmsc  childicn  of  min- 
isters who  may  l:)e  from  time  to  t  imc  cut  it  lc<l  t o  cdiK  at  ional 
privileges — the  i)i'esent  iiile  with  rcgaid  to  comniutations 
and  educational  stipends  beini;  suspended  until  such  time 
as  the  Snstentation  Fund  is  able  to  resume  the  hitherto 
existing  obligations.    (Journal,  ISSl,  p.  83.) 

X.  That  we  recognize  the  ])i  incii)le  that  any  institution  r> 
of  the  Church,  educational  or  otherwise,  which  is  or  be- 
comes a  constant  drain  on  the  funds  of  the  Sust cntaf ion 
Fund,  shall  be  discontiimed.    (.louiiial.  Issi.  |)p.  72.  77.) 

XI.  In  view  of  i)ossil>lc  failures  on  the  pait  of  this  <> 
Synod  to  i)rovide  for  uiiloicseeu  tinancial  cout inucncics.  or 
for  expenditures  that  may  ))rove  necessary  loi'  tliepioper 
administration  of  the  allaits  of  the  Pr(i\  incc.  that  the  Pro- 
A'incial  Eldei's'  Confercnrc  be  authorized  in  such  event,  in 
conjunction  with  the  Financial  iJoard,  to  make  the  best 
arrangement  they  can  to  meet  each  case.    (Journal,  1881, 

p.  86.)        .  ■ 

The  Boarding  Schools. 

I.  It  scarcely  need  be  particularly  mentioiu-d  that  the  7 
pi'o])erty  imcsted  in  our  Hoaifling-scliools  *  *  -i-  is 
held  by  the  Sustcnt at  ion  Diacony.  and  that  in  <'onse(pu'iice 
the  laflci-  is  also  li;ible  for  theij  debts.  The  Provincial 
Khlcis"  (  oiit'erence  constitutes  the  Board  of  Trustees  of 
these  institutions.    (Journal,  1847,  S  53,  p.  30.) 

II.  That  this  Synod  directs  the  Provincial  Eldei  s'  Con-  8 
ference  to  see  to  it  that  all  the  schools  of  the  Province  are 


86 


carried  on  as  ecoiiomicallj^  as  possible,  by  practicinji  the 

greatest  reti-enchment. 
1      III.  That  the  salaries  of  the  Principals  of  Boardinjo;- 

schools  be  fixed   at  five  hundred  dollars   ($500)  each. 

(Journal,  187S,  pp.  155,  156.) 
12     IV.  That  the  financial  year  of  our  Boarding-schools  shall 

close  with  the  last  day  of  June.    (Journal,  1884.  pp.  48. 

4.5.) 

Financial  Prohibition. 

3  I.  That  the  Provincial  Eldei's'  Conference  shall  have  no 
power  or  authority,  either  to  donate  or  advance  any  money 
from  the  general  funds  of  the  Church,  for  the  i3urpose  of 
erecting  churches  or  meeting-houses  in  any  of  our  congre- 
gations, .f  Journal,  1S61,  pp.  43,  44.) 

■4  ir.  That  it  is  inexpedient  at  this  time  to  authorize  any 
loans  for  the  purpose  of  purchasing  land.  (  Journal,  1884, 
pp.  23,  43,  45. ) 

The  Annual  Abstract. 

o  That  an  abstract  of  the  accounts  of  the  Sustentation 
Fund  be  annually  communicated  to  the  Board  of  Elders 
and  Trustees  of  the  congregations  entitled  to  repi-esenta- 
tion  in  the  Synod  of  the  Province.  (Journal,  1867,  pp. 
72,  73..) 

General  Principle  of  Management. 

iy  It  is  laid  down  as  a  vital  principle  in  the  management  of 
the  financial  affairs  of  the  Sustentation  Diacony,  not  only 
to  confine  expenditures  M'ithin  the  limits  of  our  income 
and  thereby  prevent  a  further  increase  of  our  indebtedness, 
but  also  gradually  to  reduce  and  ultimately  to  liquidate 
our  debt  bv  the  creation  of  a  sinking-fund.  Journal,  1849, 
p.  27,  XVi.  ) 

Investment  of  Funds. 

7  That  file  funds  of  the  Sustentation  Diacony,  including 
those  held  in  Inist,  he  invested  in  such  a  maimer  as  to 
l)ear  a  rate  ol'  interest  not  less  than  six  pei-  ceiit.,  but  that 
no  other  but  perfectlv  safe  investments  be  made.  ( Journal, 
18,55,  pp.  115,  134.) 

Gifts  and  Bequests. 

»  In  case  gifts  or  bequests  of  any  large  amount  be  made  to 
the  Sustentation  Diacony,  the  same  shall  be  considered 
and  invested,  in  the  best  manner  possible,  as  a  fund,  under 
the  name  and  title  of  the  benefactor,  of  which  fund  only 


S7 

the  annual  income  is  to  be  used  tor  tlie  i)Ui  i)oses  of  the  Sus- 
tentation  Hiaeony.  unless  wliere  the  donors  or  devisors  ex- 
pressly direct  otherwise  :  provided  always,  that  as  long-  as 
the  Sustentation  Diacony  is  burdened  with  any  funded 
debts,  it  shall  be  at  the  discretion  of  the  Provincial  Elders' 
('onference.  either  to  invest  such  sums  as  funds,  or  to  apply 
them  to  the  liquidation  of  funded  debts.  (Journal.  1^49. 
p.  26,  XIII.) 

The  Expenses  of  the  Administrative  Government. 

I.  That  the  Provincial  Synod  reiterates  its  firm  convic-  1 
tiou  that  the  Church  in  our  Province  is  able  to  jjrovide  and 
ought  to  i)rovide  for  the  expenses  of  its  government. 
(Journal,  1881,  pp.         72,  74,  75:  1884,  pp.  32,  33,' 34 : 
1888.  pp.  .")().  .■)8,  r)9. 

II.  That  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  be  and  it  is  2 
heieby  instructed  to  tix  an  amount  for  every  church  in  the 
Province  to  be  paid  annually  toM  ards  the  defraying  of  the 
genei'al  expenses  of  the  ProN  iiicial  Eldcr>'  ('(niterence  and 
of  the  government  of  the  Pi  ovince.  inchuliiig  the  removal 
of  ministers,  but  exclusive  of  the  expen.ses  of  Provincial 
Synods  and  District  Synods ;  such  money  to  be  raised  by. 
each  coiigie.i;ation  in  such  a  way  as  it  through  its  Boards  of 
_El(Jers  and  Trustees  may  think  best;  provided,  that  each 
congregation  must  report  and  forward  its  contribution  not 
later  than  Decendjer  31,  in  each  and  every  year:  and 
provided,  furthei'.  that  tliis  is  not  to  interfere  with  the  regu- 
lar Church  collections  now  established.  (Journal.  1884. 
pp.  32,  33,  .34.  ) 

III.  That  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  annually  in  ;5 
their  financial  i  e])ort.  as  also  in  their  report  to  the  Provincial 
Synods,  shall  make  a  sj)ecial  report  as  to  those  congregations 
which  have  been  delincpient.    i  Journal.  1884.  pp.  32.  34.  i 

lY.  That  the  salary  of  a  member  of  the  Provincial  4 
Elders'  Conference,  holding  no  other  office,  be  fixed  at 
(81,000)  one  thousand  dollars,  with  the  use  of  a  house. 
(Journal,  1881,  pp.  86,  87.) 

The  Pensions  of  Ministers. 

I.  That  the  maximum  amounts  paid  as  annual  pensions  o 
shall  be  :  To  a  married  couple,  or  a  widowei-.  1  s3G0  three 
hundred  and  sixty  dollars  :  to  a  widow,   si  7.-)  1  one  hundred 
and  seventy-five  dollars.    (Journal.  ISsi.        (14.  6.5.) 

II.  That  the  maximum  pension  to  be  paid  to  a  retired  un- 
married minister,  if  disabled,  be  (8250)  two  hundred  and 
fifty  dollars,    i  Joui  nal.  1881.  pp.  6.5.  72,  82.) 


88 


1  III.  That  upon  the  decease  of  a  married  retired  minister 
his  widow  shall  i-eceive  the  full  pension  of  a  married  couple 
for  the  first  six  mouths  after  said  decease,  and  after  that 
time  the  regular  pension  as  widow.  (Journal,  1S8S,  pp. 
ry\,  ()1.) 

-  TV.  That  upon  the  decease  of  a  married  minister  in 
active  service,  his  widow  shall  receive  the  full  pension  of  a 
married  couple  for  the  first  six  months  after-  said  decease, 
and  aftei'  that  time  the  regular  pension  as  widow.  (Jour- 
nal. 1S8S,  p.  107.  ) 

:i  V.  That  the  privilege  to  receive  a  pension  is  dependent 
not  only  on  faithful  service,  but  also  on  continued  faithful- 
ness to  the  Church,  and  that  the  privilege  ceases,  immedi- 
ately, on  exclusion,  dismissal  or  voluntary  severance  of  fel- 
iowshij)  with  oi-  membershij)  in  the  Brethren's  Church. 
(Journal.  188.S,  pp.  51,  61.) 

Siistentational  and  Educational  Privileges. 

4  I.  That  no  home-missionary  oi'  minister  who  has  been  re- 
ceived from  other  Chun-hes.  or  otherwise  received  into  the 
ministry  npon  trial  for  one  year,  shall  be  entitled  to  any 
sustentational  or  educational '  ])ri \  ileges.  unless  after  faith- 
ful scr\  ice  ol'  six  year>'  duration,  to  lie  coiuputed  from  the 
day  of  Ins  accc|>tance  inio  the  serv  ice  of  the  Church,  nor 
shall  eit  liei'  he  or  his  family,  in  case  of  death,  or  resigna- 
tion, OI'  i-em((\  al  from  oltice.  prior  to  the  expiration  of  said 
term,  ha\  e  claims  upon  the  general  funds  of  the  ('hu)-ch. 

*>  II.  That  no  childicn  of  any  home-missionary,  or  minis- 
tei',  born  prior  to  their  lather  lia\  ing  entered  into  the  ser- 
vice of  our  Church,  shall  be  entitled  to  educatioual  privi- 
leges. 

6  III.  That  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  shall  report 
to  every  Provincial  Synod  the  names  of  all  those  home- 
missionaries,  who  are  entitled  to  sustentational  or  educa- 
tional i)rivileges.     (.louriial.  IS(;i,  ])]>.  4.'),  14.  j 

7  1\'.  That  liie  Provincial  Elders"  Conference  be  and  it  is 
hereby  instructed  to  strictly  enforce  the  rule  with  regard  to 
sustcntal  ional  pi  i\'ileges  enacted  by  the  Synod  of  1861 
(see  .lounial,  1S61,  |)p!  4.},  44;  Provincial  Digest,  p.  88,4). 
(.b.nrnal.  ISSS.  p]).  f)!.  (il.) 

5  ^'.  'I'lial  (lie  suslenlational  ))rivilcges  of  any  widow  of  a 
deceased  minister  shall  <'easc  as  soon  as  she  shall  marry, 
but  the  educational  jirix  ileges  of  her  children  shall  con- 
tinue unaltered.    (.Journal,  1861,  p.  57. j 


89 


Annual  Collections  for  Retired  Ministers,  etc. 

I.  That  an  amiual  (•(tllection  be  held  in  the  churches  of  1 
the  Nortlicni  Disti  ict  of  the  Aiiiericaii  Province  in  tlie  first 
quarter  of  eacli  year,  for  the  sustentation  of  retired  minis- 
ters and  ministers*  widows. 

II.  That  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  be  charged  to  2 
issue  an  annual  circular.  callin,i>-  on  the  conorcgations  for 
aid,  and  urging  them  to  assist   in  supporting  those  who 
have  borne  the  labor  and  heat  of  the  day.    (.Journal,  iSTti. 
pp.  80,  81.) 

III.  That  the  ministers,    churches,    and   members   be.  3 
earnestly  requested  to  increase  the  collection  for  the  retired 
ministers  and  tlie  widows  of  ministers,  to  at  least  two 
thousand  five  hundred  dollars  ($2,500).    (Journal,  1878, 
pp.  157,  1.58. ) 

IV.  That  the  churches  of  our  Province  be  urged  to  4 
greater  liberality  in  sujiporting  the  collection  for  retired 
ministers  and  widows  of  ministers.    (Journal,  1888,  pp. 
50,  61. ) 

Betirement  from  Office. 

I.  On  final  retirement  from  otiice,  grants  may  be  made  5 
towards  the  e\i)eiises  of  removal,  if  the  brother  or  sister 
concerned  is  without  means  of  his  or  her  own.  (Synodal 
Besults,  1S18,    SO.  ) . 

II.  In  most  cas(»s  it  is  advisable  that  the  place  of  retire-  (> 
ment  should  l)e  othej-  than  the  last  place  of  service. 
(Synodal  Results,  1848,  S  80.) 

Educational  Privileges. 

I.  That  each  son  oi-  daughter  of  the  ministers  of  our  7 
Church  shall  hereafter  be  entitled  to  the  privilege  of  four 
years'  gratuitous  su])])ort  and  educatio))  in  our  educational 
Institutions,  oi'  to  a  yearly  commutation-money  of  fifty 
dollars  (huing  four  succeeding  years,  to  l)egin  from  the 
eleventh  birth(hiy  of  such  children — at  the  option  of  the 
parents.      Journal,  IStil.  p.  57.) 

II.  That  those  entitled  to  the  educational  privileges  of  8 
the  ("iiurch  siiall  no  longei"  be,  as  heretofore,  limited  to  the 
age  of  Iroiu  ten  to  fourteen  years,  but  that  the  foui'  years 
be  granted  between  the  age  often  to  sixteen  years.  (Jour- 
nal, 1881,  ]).  80.) 

III.  That  the  Provincial  Pjlders'  Conference  be  directed  t) 
to  continue  in  the  course  which  they  have  already  adopted 


!)0 

ill  retV'reiice  to  tlu'  (Hhicational  privileges  of  tlie  cliildreii  of 
ministers.    (Journal.  1S70.  ])]).  (is.  (>!•.! 

1  IV.  That  the  aiiiiiial  si  ipciid  lor  the  support  and  educa- 
tion of  the  children  of  ministers  at  our  Boarding -schoolfs 
he  increased  to  •t'JOO.  beginning  from  the  first  day  of  July, 
1S(J4.    (Journal.  1804.  p.  64.) 

Systemization  of  Collections. 

2  I.  That  the  resp(>etive  Boards,  undei-  whose  ansi»iees  the 
several  coMect ions  -.we  made,  be  iiist  rnctcd  lojinblish  the 
estimated  amounts  ie(|iiiic(l  in  cacli  case  intiic  ( 'hureli- 
]ia])ers.  ])i  i()r  to  tin-  holding'  of  the  collections. 

;i  II.  That  the  respective  l'>oai(ls  issue  a  circular  statement 
ami  a])i)eal  to  the  pastors,  elders,  trustees,  and  churches  of 
the  Prox  ince.  before  <'acli  slatt'd  collection  in  behalf  of  the 
vaiions  olijects  specilied  by  resolution  of  Synod,  giving 
the  (juota  assigned  by  them  t<»  each  church  for  such  col- 
lection. 

III.  That  the  following  schedule  of  collections  be  adopted 
in  our  churches  : 

1.  For  K'etired  Ministers — last  Sunday  in  January. 
L'.  For  iJohemian  Mission — fii-st  Sunday  in  March. 

Foi-  Foreign  M issions -Fast er-Day  or  "Whit  Suuday. 
4.  For  Xew  York  <ierniaii  .Mission — last  Sunday  in  June. 
.").  Foi'  Home  JMissions — Sunday  neaicst  September  lii. 
().  Foi'  Theological  Seminary — last  Sunday  in  l^ovember. 

IV.  That  the  Sunda.N  schools  also  be  recommended  to 
coidi'ibute  Ibr  these  objects  on  the  days  s|)ecitied. 

(;  \'.  That  the  Churches  be  re(|nested  to  adoi)t  some  system 
ol'  raising  the  quotas  assigiu'd  by  the  IJoard  of  Apportion- 
ment, Mliich  shall  be  (;ertain  to  ])roduce  them.  (Journal, 
187.S.  i)p.  I  US.  Kli).  ) 

Provincial  Trust  Funds. 

H  I.  [The  congregations  of  Bethlehem  and  Xazareth  lun-e 
ielin(|nished  a  part  of  theii'  propert>]  to  the  Sustentation 
Diacoiiy.  hut  on  the  expicss  condition  that  the  funds  so 
tiaiislerred  to  the  Sustentation  Diacony  remain  unimpaired 
and  undiminished  as  a  trust-fund  iiehi  l>y  the  Provincial 
Flder.s"  ( "ouferem-e  oi- by  the  Church  of  (tur  l*rovince,  for 
the  pur  p(»se  of  api>ropri,it ing  the  yeaily  income  to  be  de- 
ri\c(l  tlierelroni  lor  the  beuelit  of  our  Sustentation  and 
Educational  Diacony  and  for  no  other  i>uri)ose  whatever. 
The  capital  is  to  remain  untouched  and  undiminished. 
(Jouinal.  18.5"),  Report,  p.  100.) 


91 


II.  That  a  Fund  similar  to  the  BetlUelieiii  and  Xazaieth  1 
Special  Funds  l)e  croatod.  called  the  Litit/  Si)ecial  Fund, 
and  that  the  sum  of  twenty  thousand  dollars  he  credited  to 
the  same,  this  heiuj;-  the  estimated  value  of  the  Lititz 
Boarding-school,  formerly  being  considered  the  property  of 
the  Lititz  congregation,  and  not  heretofore  accounted  for  in 
the  books  of  the  Sustentation  Diacony.  ( Journal,  1S(>1 ,  \)]). 
50,  62.) 

The  Ohio  Conference  and  the  Western  Sustentation  Fund. 
That  our  congregations  in  Ohio,  Indiana  and  other  2 
Western  States,  or  as  many  of  them  as  may  wish  to  associ- 
ate together  for  such  a  purpose,  have  the  full  pn mission  of 
this  Synod  to  make  an  effoi-t  to  create  a  sustcntalioii-fund 
for  those  congregations:  and  for  that  pur])()sr  they  are 
hereby  ])ermittetl  and  authorized  to  hold  coiifeienccs,  com- 
posed of  their  ministers  aTid  lay  delegat<'S,  as  often,  and  at 
such  time  aiul  places,  as  may  In-  com cnicnt  to  them  ;  and 
if  their  efforts  should  iivow  siucrssliil.  to  make  such  regu- 
lations in  regard  to  the  accumulalion  and  disposition  of 
said  fund,  as  in  the  opinion  of  the  congregations  mentioned, 
expressed  through  such  conferences,  may  be  deemed  ex- 
pedient.   (Journal,  18o."),  pp.' S3,  84.) 

On  Raising  Certain  Capital  Funds. 

I.  That  the  Provincial  Elders'  ('onference  be  authorized  :j 
and  recpiested  to  take  such  ways  and  means  as  they  may 
deem  most  suitable  to  raise  moneys  for  the  several  enter- 
prises of  the  riuirch  named  in  this  resolution,  and  after 
appropriating  out  of  the  collection  for  each  and  every  year 
not  exceeding  fifty  per  cent,  for  the  ])ayment  ol'curi  ent  ex- 
penses, the  balance  be  funded  at  the  close  of  cacii  year  iintil 
there  shall  have  l>een  raised  for  the  endowment  of  the  Col- 
lege and  Theological  Seminaiy  a  capital  of  !?1(»(».00<),  for 
the  encouragement  of  Home  Missions  a  capital  of  foCOOO, 
and  for  the  endowment  of  the  English  and  (iennan  Church- 
pa])ers  with  liberty  to  assist  the  publication  office  there- 
out) a  capital  of  i<2,).00() :  all  of  which  funds  shall  be  kept 
properly  invested,  and  the  income  appropriated  to  said  en- 
terprises by  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference,  who  shall 
render  full  statements  of  their  doings  and  acts  to  each 
Synod. 

II.  That  it  be  recommended  to  the  Provincial  Elders'  4 
Conference,  if  they  deem  it  expedient,  to  delegate  one  oi- 
more  lay  brethren  to  visit  the  members  of  the  respective 


92 


churches,  and  explain  the  objects  of  these  funds,  and  to  lay 
before  them  the  several  iiictliods  whereby  it  is  expected 
that  means  may  l)e  raised  lor  said  i)ur[)ose.  and  to  urge 
upon  them  the  great  necessity  of  imiiu'diate  action  in  the 
mattei'. 

1  III.  That  a  stauding  appeal  be  made  in  the  columns  of 
the  ('hurch-papers  for  these  objects,  and  that  a  form  of 
be((uests  for  said  objects  be  inserted  therein.  (Journal, 
IKtiT,  p.  100. ) 

The  Newport  and  Church  Extension  Funds. 

2  I.  That  the  proceeds  of  the  Newport  property  sale  be  re- 
served for  a  Cluircli  Extension  Fund,  to  be  loaned  to  poor 
congregations,  in  sums  not  exceeding  six  hundred  dollars, 
with  interest,  on  undoubted  security,  and  for  a  period  of 
time  not  excee(ling  live  years. 

.*i  II.  That  all  property  of  aban<loned  congr<"gatioiis  that 
may  hereaftei-  come  into  the  possession  of  flie  Cliuieh  be 
disposed  of  and  the  proceeds  thereof  constitute  a-  Church 
Extension  Fund. 

4  III.  That  the  interest  accruing  from  said  fund  be  donated 
to  feeble  Home  Mission  congregations,  at  the  discretion  of 
the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference.  (Journal.  1868,  pp.  9.5, 
119,  120.) 

The  Special  Publication  Fund. 

o  That  the  Treasurer  of  the  Sustentation  Fund,  and  the 
Brethren  Joseph  A.  Eice,  Ashton  C.  Borhek,  Herman  A. 
Bi'ickenstein,  William  H.  Jordan  and  Edwin  G.  Klose  be  a 
Committee  to  control  the  application  and  disbursement  of 
the  special  Publication  Fund  ;  their  term  of  office  to  con- 
tinue until  the  next  Synod.    (Journal,  1881,  p.  107.) 

The  Joint  Board. 

(i  I.  That  this  Synod,  and  every  Provincial  Synod  here- 
after, elect  an  Ad^isory  Board  of  laymen,  in  number  equal 
to  the  number  of  members  in  the  Provincial  Elders'  Con- 
ference, who  M'ith  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference 
shall  constitute  a  Joint  Board  for  the  management  and 
control  of  all  the  financial  affairs  of  the  Province,  not 
otherwise  specially  provided  foi'.  lu  case  ol  the  resigna- 
tion or  death  of  any  member  of  the  Advisoiy  Boartl,  the 
vac^ancy  shall  be  filled  by  the  lemainiug  meudiers  of  the 
Advisoi-y  Board  until  the  next  election. 


93 


II.  Tiiat  a  iiiajoiify  of  the  mcnibers  of  this  Advisory  | 
Itoard  shall  lie  clKtseii  IVoin  the  iiicnihership  of  the  congre- 
ual  ions  which  wcic  the  i)riiici])al  coiiti  ibutors  to  the  Sus- 
icTitation  I'liiid,  naincly.  lU'thlehcin,  Nazan'tli  and  Lititz. 

III.  That  it  shall  he  the  duty  of  this  Joint  Board  to  hold  2 
iiieetiiigs  ti-oin  time  t<t  time  as  may  be  recjuired,  at  wliich 
meetinjjs  a  statement  of  the  easli  ac(;oinit  shall  be  sub- 
mitted by  the  Ticasui  er  :  such  part  of  the  cash  on  hand  as 
may  be  deemed  ailvisable  shall  be  securely  invested;  and 
such  other  business  transacted  as  falls  witliin  the  .scope  of 
the  first  of  these  I'esolntions. 

IV.  That  at  the  meetings  of  this  Joint  Boaid  the  resolu-  ;j 
tions  adopted  by  a  majority  with  rei^ard  to  all  linancial 
matters,  .shall  be  binding  upon  the  Provincial  l^lders'  Con- 
ference.   I  , Journal.  1881,  pp.  37,  (>3. ) 

y.  That  the  Pro\  incial  Polders'  Conference,  in  connection  4 
with  the  Advisory  Financial  Board,  be  recommended,  to 
take  all  necessary  ])recautions  in  making  investments ; 
to  invest  no  more  in  the  stocks  of  railroads,  banks  and 
manufacturing  companies;  and  to  reduce  the  amount  in- 
vested at  present,  as  soon  as  it  can  be  done  advantagtously, 
reinvesting  the  amounts  received  in  first  nutrtgages'on  real 
estate  and  in  reliable  bonds  of  corporations.  (Journal, 
1876,  pp.  80,  81. ) 

VI.  That  tJie  Joint  Board,  composed  of  the  Provincial  5 
Elders'  Conference  and  the  Advisory  Board.  Vie  instructed 
to  provide  for  an  annual  audit  of  thf  'aceuunts  of  the  Susten- 
tation  Fund,  of  the  Church  Boarding-schools,  and  of  the 
Publication  Concern.    (Journal,  1881,  pp.  (52,  81.) 

VII.  That  the  Brethren  Charles  A.  Zcebisch,  Abraham  6 
S.  Schropp  and  J.  Samuel  Krause,  be  elected  as  the  Ad- 
visory Board.    (Journal,  1881,  pp.  73,  82;  1884,  pp.  43, 
45;  1888,  pp.  82,  98.) 

§  87.    Hie  Provincial  Archives. 

I.  That  the  Archi\  es  now  at  Bethlehem,  belonging  to  the  7 
Province,  be  consolidated  with  those  of  the.  Moravian 
Church  at  Bethlehem,  and  be  intrusted  to  the  keeping  of 
that  church. 

II.  That  Synod  recommends  to  the  several  churches  of  s 
the  Province  to  transfer  to  the  consolidated  Archives  at 
Bethlehem,  such  papers  or  books  now  in  the  Archives  of 
these  churches,  as  the  .same  may  be  willing  to  give  up. 

III.  That  Synod  recommends  to  the  pastors  and  trustees  9 
of  the  Bethlehem  Church,  in  conjunction  with  the  Provin- 
cial Eldens'  Conference,  to  appoint  an  archivist. 


94 


1  TY.  That  any  person  desiring  to  examine  the  Archives, 
or  wisliing  to  borrow  books,  maps  or  ]);t])ei  s  from  the  same, 
shall  first  obtain  the  consent  of  the  Piovineial  Elders' 
Conference  and  the  pastois  of  the  Bethlehem  Chni-ch. 
(Journal,  1861,  pp.  01.  62.) 

2  V.  That  the  i^ynod.  hearing  with  pleasnie  that  it  is  pro- 
posed to  tciiinve  the  .loint  Ai'chives  of  the  Province  and 
the  congi  ('uat  ion  at  iJctlilehem,  together  with  the  Malin 
Libraiy.  to  a  lire  proof  building,  hereAvitli  appoints  the 
Trcasinc:  ol  llif  i'lovincial  Kldeis"  ('onferciicc,  the  Archiv- 
ist of  I  he  l*i  o\  iiicc  and  thr  Scci'ctary  of  [*ul)lications  a 
("oiniiiit  t(M'  to  co-opnatc  with  a  < 'oiinnitlcc  lo  he  a])point('d 
by  the  'i'rnstecs  of  the  congregation  at  Bet  lilchcm  in  secur- 
ing funds  for  tlic  erection  of  said  lire  ]>roof  building, 
(.lonrnal.  ISSS,  i)p.  .")(),  61.) 

Conf/regafion  Archives. 

J5  Eveiy  minister  is  expected  to  care  for  the  public  docu- 
ments of  the  congregation  whicli  he  serves.  (Svnodal 
Results,  1S86.  )  ' 


CHAl'TER  XI. 
KOKKIGN  MISSIONS. 

A  Missionary  Meeting  at  Each  Synod. 

4  That  at  each  Synod  a  public  Missionary  Meeting  be 
held,  aiul  that  a  memlxT  of  Synod  be  re(iuested  by  the 
Provincial  Eldei  s'  <  On  tci cnce  to  prepare  a  short  opening 
address,  and  one  to  conduct  the  meeting.  (Journal.  1870, 
pp.  82,  88. ) 

The  Mission  in  Alaska. 

5  I.  That  tliis  Synod  strongly  recommends  that  the  minis- 
ters and  m<Mnl>ers  of  our  churches  exert  themselves  in  ob- 
taining niembei  s  for  the  Alaska  Auviliary  to  t  he  Society 
for  Propagating  the  (ios])('l  :  and.  furthermore,  that  all  the 
churches  be  reiiuested  to  interest  themselves  in  raising 
funds  for  the  Alaska  enterprise.  (Journal.  1884,  pp.  63, 
64.  ) 

<i  II.  That  this  Synod  expi-esses  its  hearty  ap])roval  of  the 
course  piiisne(l  by  the  Pi'oN  incial  Board  with  regard  to  the 
Mission  in  Alaska,  and  ret  urns. grateful  thanks  to  the  Lord 
for  His  I'](»vi(iential  leadings  which  have  rejoiced  us  with 
the  new  s  of  the  first  fruits  of  our  missionaries"  faithful  and 


self-deiiyiiiji-  labors,  whilst  it  most  earnestly  eomnieiuls  to 
the  unceasing  prayers  and  liberal  support  of  our  congrega- 
tions this  entei  i)rise  which  has  so  thoroughly  aroused  the 
missionary  spirit  in  our  Province.  Joui  nal.  l.SSS.  pp.  28. 
.-)fi. ) 

III.  That  this  Synod  expresses  its  most  sincei  e  sympathy  1 
with  our  missionaries  at  P>ethel  and  Carniel  in  Alaska,  and 
assures  them  of  our  fraternal  intercessions  and  unceasing 
.suppoit.    (Journal.  ISSS.  pp.  70.  S9.) 

Pledge  of  Future  Faith  fulness  and  the  Modes  of  iShou'iu(/  it. 

I.  That  we  pledge  ourselves  to  be,  by  the  grace  of  God  2 
and  His  Holy  Spiiit,  more  faithful  stewards  of  the  tasti- 
mony  which  tiie  Saviour  has  committed  unto  ns,  not  merely 
because  it  is  our  sjjecial  duty  to  be  thus  faithful,  as  mem- 
bers of  a  Missionary  Chuich.  but  also  l)ecause  it  is  oui- 
Master's  will. 

II.  Tliat  we  recpiest  the  I'nity's  Elders'  Conference  to  :i 
call  more  laborers  from  our  Province  into  the  Mission 
service. 

III.  That  we  would  impress  upon  the  heaits  of  all  the  -t 
candidates  for  the  ministry  the  tact  that  the  Brethren's 
Church  has  urgent  need  of  servants  in  the  Foreign  Mission 
field  ;  and,  fui  ther.  that  the  AnuM-ican  Province  has  offered 
and  again  offers  them  to  the  3Ii.ssion  service. 

IV.  That  we   urge  the  members  and  friends  of  our  5 
Church  in  the  American  Province  to  contribute  more 
liberally  for  the  suppoi  t  of  the  Foreign  Missions  of  the 
Brethieirs  Church,  in  oidei-  that  by  increased  gifts  the 
danger  of  further  annual  deficiencies  may  be  avoided. 

V.  That  it  shall  continue  to  be  the  duty  of  each  pastor  <> 
in  charge  of  a  congregation  to  see  to  it  that  one  oi-  two 
Mission  Sermons  are  preached  before  his  congregation 
each  year,  say  on  the  Sundays  nearest  January  19  and 
August  21  :  provided  that  a  •'Mission  Festival"  may  take 
the  place  of  either  or  both  these  sermons. 

VI.  That  this  Synod  recommends  to  each  congregation  to  7 
hold  a  piayer-meeting  in  behalf  of  Foreign  Missions  on 
the  first  Monday  in  each  month,  or  on  the  Sunday  before 
the  first  Monday,  or  on  s(mie  other  convenient  day  ;  and 
that  in  such  meetings  for  prayer  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  the 
minister  to  communicate  news  from  our  Missions  and  to 
instruct  the  people  in  ^lissicm  history.  (Journal.  1S7S,  pp. 
12.5-128.) 


1  VII.  That  the  Monthly  Mission  Prayer-meetings  shall  be 
ctiiiscieiitionsly  and  faithfnlly  observed  by  all  the  eongrega- 
tions  ill  tile  Pion  iiiee. 

2  VIII.  That  at  eaeh  of  said  ineetings.  collections  be  taken 
u])  for  onr  Foi-eign  Mission  canse.    ( Jonrnal.  1S81,  p.  100.) 

;$  IX.  That  this  Synod,  in  the  iiaiue  of  the  Nortliern  Dis- 
trict of  tlie  Aiiierican  Piox  iiice.  l  oiterates  its  adhei'ence  to 
the  ]>rinci|)le  that  '"the  P>ictlii('irs  I  'nity  and  the  Brethren's 
Missions  arc  inseparably  coiiiicci cd.  and  that  tlieie  never 
will  l»c  a  I'liity  of  the  P.ictlucn  wittioiil  a  Mission  to  the 
Heathen  or  a  JMission  of  the  lirctlncn  which  is  not  an  affair 
of  the  whole  dinich.""     (Journal.  tMSS,  pp.  It.j.  111.) 

+  X.  That  this  SvikmI  recognizes  the  obligation  to  raise 
our  fair  sliare  ot  iuone>  iicrc  in  America  to  make  good  the 
deficit  in  onr  general  iiiissi(>iiar\  accounts,  and  urge  our 
members  and  missionary  sdcictics  to  do  all  in  their  power 
to  accomplish  this,  as  well  as  1(»  contribute  more  liberally 
so  thai  snch  deficits  may  be  prevented.  (  Journal,  1888, 
pp.  70.  .S!>. )  " 

r>  XI.  That  it  shall  continue  to  be  the  duty  of  pastors  and 
superintendents  of  Sunday-schools  to  sti'ive  to  awaken 
among  oui'  young  people  an  interest  in  the  Mission-work  of 
onr  Church. 

<i  XII.  That  pastors,  Sunday-school  superintendents,  and 
the  principals  of  our  Church  Schools,  be  requested 
to  encoui'age  the-  formation  of  Juvenile  Missionary  Socie- 
ties in  our  Sunday-schools,  Parochial  Schools  and  Church 
Schools ;  and  general  oi'  special  Missionary  Societias  in 
each  congregation.  (Journal,  1878,  pp.  125-128  ;  1881,  p. 
100  ;  1884,  p.  64.) 

7  XIII.  That  we  urge  upon  the  ministers  and  members  of 
our  Church  to  take  greater  ])ersonal  interest  in  the  Foreign 
Mission  work,  and  to  increase  this  interest  by  subscribing 
for  and  reading  missionary  reports,  and  above  all,  by 
piayers  for  Missions  and  Missionaries. 

8  XIV.  That  one  or  more  Mission  Festivals  a  year  be  eele-' 
brated  in  all  those  congregations  where  circumstances  will 
permit.    (Journal,  1881,  p.  100.) 

{)  XV.  That  we  recommend  the  holding  of  annual  church- 
collections  for  Foreign  Missions,  and  also  regular  collections 
at  the  monthly  prayer-meetings,  and  at  the  Mission  Festi- 
vals.   (Journal,  1878,  pp.  12.5-128.) 

lO  XVI.  That  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  be  re- 
quested to  appoint  for  each  District  a  brother  as  Advocate 
of  the  h (.reign  Missions,  whose  duty  it  shall  be,  amongst 


97 

other  things,  to  take  part  if  possible  in  the  various  Mission 
Festivals.    (Joiii-nal,  1SS8.  pp.  2S,  56.) 

XVII.  That  this  Synod  urges  upon  the  congregations  1 
not  to  neglect  the  collection  for  the  support  of  su])eraunu 
ated  or  disabled  native  foreign  missionaries. 

XVIII.  That  this  Synod  exi)resses  itself  in  brotherly  2 
sympathy  with  the  faithful  and  haid-working  Missionaries 
and  their  assistants  in  the  Indian  Mission  Fields  of  Xew 
Fairfield.  Canada,  and  New  Wi'stfield.  Kansas,    i  Journal. 
1881.  pp.  100.  101.  ) 

XIX.  That,  in  the  event  of  the  unavoidable  cessation  ti 
of  the  Indian  Mission  in  Kansas,  the  Synod  will  regard 
with  satisfaction  the  embracing  of  any  new  opening  for  a 
Mission  among  the  Indians,  which  may  commend  itself  to 
the  judgment  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference.  (Jour- 
nal. ISSS,  pp.  28,  oO.  I 

XX.  That  this  Synod  of  the  Moravian  Church  hails  with  4 
joy  the  indications  of  a  great  revival  of  intei  est  in  the  work 
of  Foreign  Missions,  evidenced  by  the  recent  World's  For- 
eign Missionary  Conference,  held  June  9  to  19,  1888,  in 
London,  and  prays  God  to  hasten  the  day  when  the  Church 

of  Christ  shall  be  united  in  carrying  out  the  command  of 
our  Lord  :  "Go  ye  into  all  the  world  and  preach  the  Gos- 
pel to  every  creature."    .Journal,  1888,  p.  111.) 


CHAPTER  XII. 
ACTIVITY  FOR  THE  KINGDOM  OF  GOD  IN  CHRISTENDOM. 
§  114.     A.  MISSIONS  IN  BOHEMIA  AND  MORAVIA. 

I.  That  this  Synod  encourages  and  exhorts  to  a  more  5 
earnest  and  thorough  prosecution  of  the  Bohemian  Mission. 

II.  That  this  Synod  instruct  the  Bohemian  Committee  to  (» 
continue  a  direct  and  regular  correspondence  with  the  mis- 
sionaries in  Bohemia — letters  fi-om  them  to  be  ])ublished  in 
our  Church-papers. 

III.  That  the  Synod  recommend  the  setting  apart  of  that  7 
Sunday  in  March  nearest  the  first  (»f  March — the  annivei - 
sary  of  the  founding  of  the  Chuich  of  our  Fathers — as  a 
day  of  special  prayer  for  the  Bohemian  Mission,  and  that 
after  the  present  year,  congregations,  which  have  no  stated 
time  or  manner  of  taking  a  collection  for  this  object,  do  so 
on  this  occasion.  'Journal.  187().  i)]).  88.  89:  1881.  ])p. 
101,  102.) 


1  IV.  That  to  tliis  end  the  lesolutioii  of  the  Synod  of 
1876,  p.  89,  ai)i)oiiitiiiii  the  first  Siuulay  in  March  as  a  day 
of  special  pra\ei'  toi' tlie  liolicniiau  Mission  be  anew  urged 
upon  the  churciies  of  the  Prox  ince.  and  tliat  sucli  congre- 
gations as  have  not  hitlierto  coniplied  Willi  lliis  reguhition 
reciuiring  an  annual  collection  in  behalf  of  this  cause  (on 
that  day)  he  i  ((lucsled  hereafter  to  give  heed  thei'eto. 
(Journal,  ISSl,  p.  mi.  ) 

2  V.  That  t  his  Synod  earnestly  commends  this  noble  cause 
to  tin-  steady  and  generous  support  and  i)rayerful  interces- 
sion of  the  churches  of  the  J'lovince,  that  a  new  and 
glorious  epoch  may  dawn  for  our  Church  thus  reinstated  in 
the  ancient  seats  of  our  spiritual  forefathers.  (Jounnil, 
ISSl.  ])]).  tOl.  KIL*  :  1SS4:,  p.  ()9.  ) 

ti  \  \.  That  in  addition  to  the  I'egularly  apjioiuted  Synodi 
cal  collection,  at  least  one  of  the  eolleetious  takeu  u])  at 
the  monthly  missionary  meetings,  ordered  by  vSynod,  be  de 
voted  to  the  Bohemian  Mission.    (,loiii  iial.  issi,  p.  69. ) 

4  VII.  That  the  attention  of  the  Sunday-si'hools  of  the 
Province  be  directed  to  this  particular  object,  and  they  be 
recpiested  to  make  a  united  and  special  effort  to  secure  the 
needful  funds.    (Journal,  1881,  p]).  101,  102.) 

5  VIII.  That  this  Synod  uigently  leeonnnends  to  the 
Standing  Committee  on  Bohemian  .Mission  the  insertion  of 
articles  in  our  Church  ])apers.  bearijig  on  that  subject, 
about  the  time  of  tli(»  annual  collection. 

(i  IX.  That  this  Synod  suggest  to  the  ministers  of  our  Pro- 
vince the  advisability  of  preseiding  the  work  in  Bohemia 
to  our  congregations  in  a  historical  sermon  on  the  day  on 
which  the  annual  collection  in  aid  of  the  Mission  is  taken 
up.    (Journal,  1888,  pp.  51,  61. ) 

B.-  HOME  MISSIONS  AND  CHURCH  EXTENSION. 

Objects  of  Home  Missions. 

7  That  the  great  objects  of  our  Moravian  Home  Missions 
are,  to  spread  the  Gospel,  to  win  souls  for  Jesus,  wherever 
He  opens  the  door  in  our  country,  and  to  form  societies 
and  congregations  in  full  communion  with  the  Moi-avian 
Church.    (Journal,  1861,  pp.  43,  44.) 

Control  of  Missionaries. 

8  That  the  supreme  management  of  our  Home  Missions, 
including  the  appointment  and  oversight  of  our  home-mis- 
sionai  ies,  is  vested  in  the  Provincial  Folders'  Confei'ence ; 


99 


and  the  I'loviiicial  Board  of  Cluircli  Extension  .sliall  lully 
control  all  matters  referred  to  it  bv  Synod.  (Journal. 
18S1,  pp.  95,  97.) 

Organization  of  Missions. 

That  any  number  of  persons,  beiufr  under  the  care  of  a  1 
home-missionary,  appointed  by  the  Provincial  Elders' 
Conference,  may.  with  the  consent  of  that  body,  and  under 
such  rules  and  regulations  a^s  it  shall  prescribe,  organize 
themselves  into  a  home-mission  congregation,  the  full  com- 
mimicant  members  of  which  shall  be  considered  individu- 
ally full  members  of  the  Moravian  Church  :  but  no  home- 
mission  congregation,  as  such,  shall  have  the  privilege  or 
right  of  svnodical  rei)resentation.  (Journal.  1861.  pp.  43, 
44. ) 

Admission  as  a  liegular  Churcli. 

That  wdien  such  a  home-mission  congregation  shall  have  2 
been  completely  organized,  and  its  members  fully  instructed 
and  indoctrinated  in  the  views  and  principles  of  our 
Church,  said  home-mission  congregation  shall  be  consti- 
tuted and  admitted  as  a  regulai-  Moravian  or  Brethren's 
Church,  in  accordance  with  the  rules  and  piovisions  laid 
down  h\  the  Provincial  Synod  :  but  no  home  mission  con- 
gregation shall  be  constituted  and  admitted  as  a  regulai- 
Moravian  or  Brethren's  Cliuich.  unless  by  a  resolution  of 
the  Provincial  Synod,  and  until  such  home-mission  congre- 
gation shall  be  tully  able  and  willing  to  provide  for  the 
sui^port  of  its  minister,  and  the  necessities  of  its  church- 
establishment,  without  any  fixed  or  regular  aid  out  of  the 
general  funds  of  the  Chur-ch.    (Journal.  IS61.  pp.  4;}.  44.) 

Vnpromvnng  Fields. 

I.  That  whenever  the  Provincial    Elders"    Conference  :$ 
shall  have  become  fully  satisfied,  after  a  i-easonable  pei  iod 
of  time,  that  there  is  no  prospect  whatever  of  establishing 

a  Moravian  Church  at  a  home-mission  station,  they  may  I'e- 
move  or  appoint  their  missionary  elsewhere,  to  a  moie 
promising  field  of  labor.    (Journal,  ISOI.  p.  44.) 

II.  That  Synod  recommends  the  Provincial  Board  of  4 
Church  Extension,  after  consultation  with  the  Provincial 
Elders'  Conference,  to  discontinue  such  home-mission  en- 
terprises, as,  after  years  of  careful  cultivation,  give  little 
prospect  of  reaching  the  position  of  self-supi)ort.  iJoui  - 
nal.  187S,  p.  161.) 


100 


1  III.  That  if,  after  the  lapse  of  ten  ( 10)  yeans,  there  be. 
in  the  opinion  of  the  Provincial  Polders'  Conference,  and  in 
that  of  the  Board  of  Church  Extension,  no  prospect  of 
self-snp])oit.  for  an  enterprise  that  has  received  careful 
cultival  such  a  iiiissidii  shall  be  served  in  connection 
witli  the  iicaicsi  Moravian  (•(tii^refiation,  or,  if  that  be  im- 
IH  acticalilc.  ahaiidoiicd  ;  ]»r(»vidc(l  t  liat  ii()thiiij>' hei'ein  eon- 
iaiiicd  shall  iircNcnt  Ihc  Provincial  I^ldcrs'  ( 'oiiference  and 
the  r.oard  of  ('Inircli  Kxlciisioii  iVoiii  uiaUiiig  such  an  ar- 
ranucniciit  or  <'iilirclv  al»an(loiiiii<i  an  enterprise,  if  such 
action  seems  called  lor  at  an  earlier  time.  (Journal,  1888, 
pp.  Oti,  101.  ) 

Incitement  to  Self -Support. 

2  That  tlie  Board  of  Chnrcli  Extension  l»e  and  is  bei'eby 
instructed  to  annually  deciease.  as  it  may  deem  (>x])e(lient. 
the  amounts  paid  the  ministers  of  the  various  Home  .Mis- 
sion congregations  and  to  require  a  correspondino-  inciease 
of  conti'ibutions  on  the  part  of  such  congregations.  (Jour- 
nal, 1883,  PI).  <i().  101.  )  - 

Spread  of  the  Work. 

3  I.  That  we  regard  with  much  satisfaction  and  thankful- 
ness, the  self-denying  and  devoted  spirit  thatsevei'al  of  our 
brethren  have  shown  in  going  forth  into  the  li(nn«'-mission 
work,  in  the  trust  that  the  Lord  would  piovide  through 
those  to  whom  they  might  minister  in  holy  things,  and 
without  dependence  upon  tlie  general  fund  of  the  Church 
for  theii-  supi)ort ;  and  that  it  is  stidngly  recommended 
to  our  Provincial  Elders'  Conference,  editois,  and  ministers 
generally,  to  use  every  effort  to  promote  so  worthy  and 
apostolic  a  spirit  among  the  young  men  of  our  congrega- 
tions. 

4  II.  That  brethren — if  such  be  found  with  the  needful 
qualifications — be  commissioned  to  visit  new  and  destitute 
localities  in  our  country,  and  be  licensed  to  preach  the 
Gospel  and  collect  congregations,  having  their  traveling 
expenses  paid,  but  without  depending  for  support  upon 
the  funds  of  the  Church. 

.5  III.  That  we  recommend  that  the  first  places  so  visited 
be  those  in  which  one  or  more  Moravian  families  have 
settled.    (Journal,  1867,  j)p,  78,  91,  92. ) 

6  IV.  That  the  attention  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Confer- 
ence be  called  to  the  importance  of  securing  the  observ- 
ance by  the  pastors  of  all  our  congregations  of  resolution 


KM 

U),  Appenuix  h.  Journal  of  Synod  of  18ti7,  which  reads  as 
follows:  "That  the  ministers  of  all  congregations,  when 
sending  in  their  annual  statistics,  be  instincted  to  furnish 
the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  with  the  names  and  i)Ost- 
office  address  of  all  the  members  who  have  moved  out  of 
their  i-espective  congregations  to  such  j)laces  where  no 
Moravian  congregations  exist,  together  with  sucli  other  in- 
formation a«  they  mav  deem  proper."  (Journal,  1881,  pp. 
9.-),  97.) 

y.  That  in  view  of  the  great  si)iiitual  destitution  exist-  1 
ing  in  many  portions  of  our  land,  botli  among  the  native 
and  the  foreign  population,  our  (liui eh  make  every  exer- 
tion, through  her  officers  and  ministers,  in  the  way  of 
fostering,  encouraging  and  speedily  extending  our  home- 
mission  work.      Journal.  1S70,  p.  88.) 

VI.  That  the  pastors  of  home-nii.ssion  congregations,  2 
and  others,  be  requested  to  announce,  from  time  to  time, 
tlirough  The  Morariau  and  Dfr  Brueder  Jiof.schaffer,  such 
itpenings  for  farmers,  labnici  s.  and  artisans  as  may  present 
tliemselves  to  their  ohsci  \  al  ion,  and  seek  through  corre- 
spondence to  draw  to  them  Moravian  mend>eishii).  (Jour- 
nal, 1878,  pp.  161,  162. ) 

The  Building  of  Churches. 

I.  That  no  honie-niission  church  which  counts  on  aid  3 
t'l  cmi  the  Province  shall  build  a  church  oi'  a  cha])el  without 
the  express  sanction  of  tin-  rrovincial  I><i;ir(l  of  Church 
lOxtension  :  a  plan  of  the  linildiiig  and  estimates  of  the 
cost  shall  he  laid  Ix'foic  1lit>  same  for  approval,  and  this 
Hoard  shall  lia\c  aiillioiity  to  reject  any  plan  if  the  same 
should  be  tbiind  to  l»e  unnecessarily  expensive.  (Journal, 
1881,  pp.  89,  90.) 

II.  That  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  allow  no  new  4 
iiome mission  church  to  be  consecrated  until  all  the  ex- 
pcnses  iiicin  i  t'd  in  building  the  same  have  been  ])aid.  ov.  at 
least,  until  the  Provincial  Polders'  Conference  be  fully  satis- 
lied  that  they  will  be  paid.    (Journal,  1873,  jjp.  82,  83. ) 

III.  That  no  new  church-building,  hereafter  to  be  erected,  5 
shall  be  consecrated  until  all  the  expenses  incuned  in  the 
building  of  the  same  shall  have  been  paid,  or  have  been 
provided  foi-  bv  collateral  .securitv.    (Journal,  1881,  pp. 
H,  72.) 

IV.  That  in  every  case  the  pastor  and  officers  of  a  con-  <t 
gregation  notify  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  that 
these  ref|uirements  have  been  complied  with,  and  that 


102 


thereupon  the  said  Conference  formally,  in  writing,  author- 
ize the  dedication. 

1  V.  That  in  the  event  of  the  expenses  not  having  been 
paid  or  provided  for  by  collateral  security,  a  public  open- 
ing of  the  new  church,  or  chapel,  may  take  place,  after  the 
Provincial  Elders'  Conference  shall,  in  the  same  way.  have 
been  notified,  and  shall  have  given  its  written  authoriza- 
tion, always  provided  that,  in  this  document  it  shall  be  dis- 
tinctly stated,  that  if,  at  such  opening,  the  amount  of  the 
debt  be  collected,  or  pledged,  a  formal  dedication  may  at 
once  take  ])lace.    (Journal,  1884,  p.  53.) 

Home  Mission  Societies. 

2  1.  That  this  Synod  commends  those  congregations  which 
have  established  Home  Mission  Societies  in  their  midst. 
( Journal,  1873.  pp.  82,  83. ) 

;5  II.  That  tlie  Home  Mission  Societies  now  in  existence  in 
our  ('(ingrcgations,  be  urged  by  the  Synod  to  provide  more 
■  JiberaUji  tliaii  licictofore  foi-  the  temporal  sui)i)ort  and  com- 
fort of  tlieii-  Miissionai'ies. 

4  III.  That  the  pastors  ol'  sucli  of  our  congiegations  in 
which  tlieic  aic  no  Home  Mission  Societies,  be  urged  by 
Synod  to  undertake,  without  delay,  the  formation  of  such 
Societies  auxiliary  to  tiie  home-mission  work  of  our 
Church.    I  Journal,  1870,  pp.  87,  88.) 

'■»  W .  Tiiat  Synod  recommends  all  congregations  which 
have  not  yet  done  so,  to  institute  an  organized  effort  to 
sui)port  the  Hojue  Missionary  cause  both  among  adults 
and  children.     Journal,  1884.  pp.  .39,  48.) 

Mission  Festivals. 

<>  I.  Tliat  our  Home  Mission  congregations  which  are  in 
pioximity  one  to  another,  be  lequested  to  unite  at  least 
once  in  each  year,  in  holding  a  "  Mission,  Festival,''  for  the 
purpose  not  only  of  raising  funds  for  the  Foreign  and 
Home  Missions,  and  creating  and  sustaining  an  interest  in 
inissionary  work,  but  also  of  cementing  the  congregations 
in  the  bonds  of  brotherly  love.  (Journal,  1867,  pp. 
79,  93.) 

7  II.  That  the  above  resolution,  in  i-egard  to  the  holding 
of  Mission  Festivals,  be  anew  and  earnestly  emphasized, 
and  that  Synod  urge  that  such  Mission  Festivals  for  the 
support  of  the  Home  as  well  as  the  Foreign  Mission  work 
beheld,  if  possible,  in  all  congregations.  (Journal,  1884, 
pp.  48,  49.) 


Synodal  Home  Mission  Meetin;/. 

That  at  each  S.yno(l  a  pul)lic  Home  Missionary  meeting  1 
he  held,  and  that  a  member  ol"  the  Synod  be  reciuested  by 
tlie  Pioviiicial  Elders'  Conference  to  prepare  a  short  open- 
ing address,  and  one  to  conduct  the  nu-ctini;.  and  that  at 
this  meetiii<>-  a  collection  be  taken.  (Journal,  1S84,  pp.  40, 
()7,  ()S.  ) 

Financial  Support  and  Collections. 

I.  That  the  Synod  looks  with  eonhdciicc  to      tlic  mem-  i2 
bers  of  our  Church,  and  to  our  different  llunic  Mission  So- 
cieties, to  co-operate  with  the  Provincial  l>oard  of  Church 
Extension  in  aiding  and  carrying  forward  our  home-mis- 
sion work.    (Journal,  1S81,  pp.  95,  9(5,  97.) 

II.  That  every  Church  of  our  Province  be  instructed  to  3 
take  uj)  at  least  one  collection  for  Home  Missions  in  every 
year. 

III. "  That  the  Provinciiil  l-'ldcrs"  Conference  be  instructed  + 
to  publish  in  our  Clinrcli  papers,  toward  the  close  of  every 
year,  a  tabular  statement  of  the  contriliutions  of  all  the 
churches  to  the  Home  .Mission  cansc.  and  that  those 
churches  which  have  given  nothing  to  this  cause  during 
the  year,  be  endorsed  with  the  word  "nothing."  (Journal, 
1873,  pp.  82,  88. ) 

IV.  That  a  monthly  Home  Missionary  prayer-meeting  5 
and  collection  be   held,   wherever  this  is  practicable. 
(Journal,  1SS4.  ])p.  fs,  49.  j 

V.  That  the  Provincial  Board  of  Chuix^h  Extension  be  6 
instructed  to  urge  upon  all  our  Home  Mission  congrega- 
tions the  duty  of  doing  all  in  their  power  to  provide  for  the 
support  and  comfort  of  the  missionaries  who  are  sent 
among  them  to  care  for  their  spiritual  interests.  (Journal, 
1881,  pp.  96,  97.) 

Wews  of  the  Worl: 

That  Synod  expe(!ts  it  as  a  matter  of  duty  on  the  part  of  our  7 
Home  Missionaries,  that  they  furnish  f]'c(|uent  and  detailed 
reports  of  the  success  and  needs  of  their  resj)cctive  Home 
Mission-stations  to  the  Church-papers.    (Journal,  1884,  pp. 
48,  49.  ) 

The  Home  Mission  Debt. 

That  our  congregations  and  Home  Mission  societies  be  8 
urged  to  show  increased  zeal  and  faithfulness  in  contribu- 
ting to  this  cause,  so  that  this  debt  may  be  paid,  and  that 
hereafter  current  expenses  may  be  punctually  met,  and  the 
work  steadily  advanced.    (Journal,  1881,  pp.  96.  97.) 


104 


The  New  Tori-  Germin  Chwch . 

I.  That  annual  colkH'tions  be  taken  up  in  all  our  conjin* 
gations  for  the  payment  of  tlie  inteiest.  and,  nltiiuatfly,  of 
the  whole  debt  of  oui'  (iei  inan  Mission  in  X<'\v  Yoi  k  City. 
i.Iournal  l«7(i.  pp.  SO.  Ml. ) 

1  11.  That  we  urge  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  and 
the  Provincial  Board  of  ("hurcli  Extension  to  render  the 
l)astor  of  OUI- German  congregalioii  in  Xew  Yoik  City  all 
possible  encouragcMuent  and  assistance  in  devising  ways 
and  means  to  .secure  the  purchase  ol  a  new  church. 
(  Journal.  ISSl.        \)^\.  ;»4.  ) 

1>  III.  \\'iiEKi;\s,  It  has  become  imperatively  necessary, 
if  the  (rcM  inaii  Mission  in  New  York  is  to  obtain  a  perma- 
nent loothoUl  and  (U'veh)pinent.  that  a  suitable  (thurch  edi- 
fice should  he  secured  :  therefore 

;j  h'r.so/rril.  That  the  Synod  recommend  the  Provincial 
Elders'  Contcrcnce  and  tiie  Pro\  incial  Board  of  Ch«rch 
Exti'usion  to  sell  the  Mission  property.  No.  (>.%  Sixth 
Sti'eet,  New  ^'ork.  whenevei' suit  able  terms  can  be  obtained 
and  made:  with  the  following  plan  in  \  iew  :  First,  that  if 
the  adjaceiil  (11111(11  can  be  pui'chased,  the  ])roceeds  of  the 
sale  of  tlif  Sixlli  Siicct  property  be  applied  toward  the 
I)ayment  ol  the  purchase  money:  secondly,  tliAt  in  such 
case  the  Provincial  Eldeis'  Conference  be  satisfied  to  take 
a  second  mortgage  in  ])lace  of  the  first  mortgage  uow  held 
on  the  New  Yoi  k  Geiman  Mission  i)roperty,  for  the  loan 
from  the  Siisl  eiitation  and  Home  Mission  Funds.  (Journal, 
ISSi.  pp.  !»:.  <»!).  1 

Tlie  Provincial  Board  of  Church  Extension. 

4  I.  That  Synod  appoint  a  Provincial  Board  of  Church 
Extension  to  whom  shall  be  committed  the  work  of  enter- 
ing new  fields  of  labor  ;  of  starting  and  organizing  mission 
enterprises;  of  erecting  chinch  edifices  for  new  congrega- 
tions ;  of  aiding  to  liquidate  indebtedness  resting  upon 
houses  of  worship,  and  of  promoting  in  every  other  way 
the  work  of  (  hurch  Extension  in  on i- Province. 

5  ri.  The  mendteis  of  the  Prox  incial  Elders'  Conference 
t(jgethei'  with  three  lay  brethien.  to  be  elected  by  this 
Synod,  shall  constitute  the  Piovincial  Board  of  Church 
Extension,  whose  term  of  oflice  shall  be  the  same  as  that 
of  the  Provincial  Elders"  Conference.  They  shall  be  em- 
powered to  select  their  officers  from  their  own  number, 
provided  that  the  Treasurer  shall  ahvays  be  a  layman,  and 


105 


also  to  Hll  all  vacaiicit's  which  may  occur  by  death,  or 
otherwise. 

III.  The  Board  shall  lia\i'  authority  to  iuau<j;urate  and  1 
prosecute  such  ettorts  as  sliall  result  in  the  establishineiit 
of  a  Church  Extension  Fund  of  ^.$.50,000  i  J'ifty  Thousand 
Dollars  :  and  shall  be  authorized  by  Synod  to  have  vspecial 
collections  taken  up  in  all  the  churches  of  the  Province, 
once  every  year,  in  aid  of  Clnii-ch  Extension,  to  be  used  as 
hereaftei'  desci  ib«'d  ;  pioei<le<l.  that  on  and  after  October  1, 
187().  tliis  Board  assumes  the  support  of  the  existing  Home 
Mission  work,  witii  all  its  pecuniary  obligations,  and  pro- 
inded,  that  the  proceeds  of  the  present  Church  Extension 
Fund,  and  of  the  Newi)ort  Fund,  be  turned  over  to  the 
new  Board  ;  provided,  also,  that  nothing  herein  contained 
shall  be  construed  to  work  in  opposition  to  the  labors  of 
any  existing  Home  INIission  Society. 

IV.  The  Boartl.  alter  secuicly  and  judiciously  investing  1 
this  amount  of  s."))*.!)!)!)  as  a  permanent  Church  Extension 
Fund,  shall  cause  the  interest  accruing  from  the  same,  to- 
gether witli  such  sums  as  shall  be  received  from  the  special 
collections  in  the  various  chui'ches,  to  be  loaned  or  donated 
for  the  support  and  success  of  such  religious  enterprises 
as  may  have  been  inaugurated  by  or  committed  to  the 
Board. 

V.  The  Board  shall  visit,  or  cause  to  be  vi.sited,  such  en-  3 
terprises  as  are  under  its  care,  so  as  to  render  advice  and 
encouragement  to  the  pastor  who  is  in  the  midst  of  the 
hard  labor  and  trials  of  developing  his  post,  as  also  to  indi- 
cate to  his  people  such  means  and  measures  as  will  result 

in  their  temporal  and  si)iritual  prosperity  ;  it  being  under- 
stood that  no  member  of  this  Board,  as  such,  receive  any 
salary  whatever,  and  have  no  expenses  paid  by  the  Board, 
except  those  of  traveling  from  place  to  place,  in  such  a 
s\  stem  of  visitation. 

VI.  The  Board  shall  present  to  each  Synod  a  detailed  4 
account  of  all  moneys  raised  and  expended,  and  what  work 
has  been  done  and  with  what  results,  in  theextensi<m  of  the 
Church. 

VII.  The  members  of  the  Board  shall  be  entitled  to  seats  5 
as  advisory  members  in  the  various  District  Synods  in  the 
F'rovince.  the  Board  defraying  their  traveling  expenses. 

Vin.  That  Synod  recommends  to  District  Synods  the  (> 
appointment  of  District  Boards  of  Chui  ch  Extension. 

IX.  That  the  Provincial  Board  of  Church  Extension  be  7 
directed  to  procure  a  charter,  and  that  this  charter  be  so 


106 


framed  as  to  allow  a  change  in  the  number  of  the  Board  by 
action  of  Synod. 

1  X".  That  it  is  ,stii)nlated  and  agreed  that  no  call  shall  be 
made  on  the  Sustcntatioii  Fund  for  any  of  the  money  re- 
quired to  cany  (uit  the  loicyoing  principles,  and  further, 
that  the  collect  ions  |ir(i\  idcil  lor  shall  in  nowise  interfere 
with  those  collections,  annual  or  otherwise,  which  have 
been  from  time  to  time  ordered  by  the  Synod.  (Journal, 
1876,- pp.  -57-59,  83-85;  1881,  pp.  95,  96.) 

2  xr.  That  the  Brethren  C.  A.  Zd  biscli.  Joseph  A.  Rice, 
and  Ashtou  C.  Borhek  be  the  lay  menilx  i  s  of  1  he  Provincial 
Board  of  Church  Extension,    ('.lournal,  i.s.ss,  pp  91,  107.) 

a  XII.  That  in  view  of  the  response  so  far  made  to  the 
appeal  for  the  establishment  of  a  Church  Extension  Fund, 
Synod  endorses  the  present  plan  of  operations,  and  recom- 
mends the  use  of  such  further  means  as  shall,  under  the 
blessing  of  God,  result  in  the  collection  of  the  whole 
amount  desired,    i  Journal,  18V8,  p.  162.) 

+  Xlll.  That  the  Provincial  Board  of  Church  Extension  be 
reijuested  to  devise  a  plan  looking  to  the  present  use  of 
the  income  of  the  Church  Extension  Fund,  in  so  far  as  this 
can  legally  be  done  under  the  enactments  of  Synod,  or  by 
the  consent  of  the  contributors  of  said  fund.  (Journal, 
1881,  pp.  79,  98,  99.) 

5  XIV.  That  the  attention  of  the  Board  of  Church  Exteu 
sion  be  called  to  the  importance  of  employing  a  traveling 
missionary  in  the  First  and  Second  Districts.  (Journal, 
1884,  p.  68.) 

Charier  of  an  intended  Corporation  to  be  formed  undei-  the 
provisions  of  the  Act  of  Assembly  of  April  29, 
and  the  Supplements  thereto. 


I. 

<>  The  name  of  the  (Corporation  shall  be  "  The  Boanl  of  Church  Ex- 
tension of  the  American  Moravian  Church."  . 

ir. 

7  The  purpose  for  which  it  is  formed  is  tlie  work  of  entering  new 
fields  of  hihor;  of  beginning  and  ortiaiii/.ini:  iiiissiiin  ciilerprises  ;  of 
erecting  church  edihces  or  parsonages:  ui  aiilini:  in  licjuidate  in- 
debtedness resting  upon  houses  of  w  urshiii  or  iiaisnnages  ;  and  of 
promoting  in  every  other  way  tlie  woi  k  ui  (  lnii  c  li  lOxtension  in  the 
American  Province  of  the  Church  of  iho  1  nilcd  brethren,  or  Mora- 
vians, and  for  the  further  purpose  of  cai  rx  ing  (jii  the  work  of  Home 
Missions  according  to  such  rules  and  regulations  as  the  Synod  of  said 
.\merican  Province  of  the  Church  of  the  United  Brethren,  or  Mora- 
vians, may  from  time  to  time  adopt. 


107 


III. 

The  place  or  places  where  its  business  is  to  be  transacted  shall  be  1 
at  Bethlehem  Borough,  in  the  County  of  Northampton,  and  State  of 
Pennsylvania,  or  at  such  other  places  in  said  State,  as  may,  from  time 
to  time,  he  detertnined  on  by  the  Synod  of  the  American  Moravian 
Church. 

IV. 

The  term  for  which  it  is  to  exist  is  to  be  perpetually,  subject  to  the  2 
power  of  the  General  Assembly  under  the  Constitution  of  this  Com- 
monwealth. ^ 
V. 

The  names  and  residences  of  the  subscribers  are:  3 
Edmund  de  Schweiiiitz,  Bethlclieni.  Peiiiisvl vaiiia  :  Kiiijene  Lei- 
bert,  Nazareth,  Pennsylvania  ;  ('li;irli  s  A.  /<i  lliscli,  Xnw  York  City, 
New  York;  Augustus  Scliiilt/.i'.  Urililchi'm.  rciins\-l\ ania  :  .Joseph 
A.  Rice,  Bethlehem,  Peuiisylv  ania ;  Nathaniel  S.  \Volle,  Lititz, 
Pennsylvania. 

VI. 

The  Number  of  its  Directors  and  the  names  and  residences  of  4: 
those  who  are  (rhosen  Directors  for  the  first  year  are  : 

Edmund  de  Schweinitz,  Bethlehem,  Pennsylvania  :  iMiirenc  Lei- 
bcrt,  Nazareth,  Pennsylvania;  f'liarles  .\.  /leliiseh.  New  ^'ork  City, 
New  Y'ork  ;  Ani:  suis  S.-li  iiltzi',  lii'thleliem.  Pennsvh'ania  ;  .loseph 
A.  Rice,  Bethleh.Mii.  l'riiiis\  1\ ania  :  Naliianiel  S.  Wo'lle,  Litilz,  Penn- 
sylvania. Their  siirci  v^ix  s  shall  lie  such  and  as  many  as  may  from 
time  to  time  be  determined  tin' S\ mid  of  the  American  Moravian 
Church:  Pruritled  tliat  there  sliall  aiways  In-  an  equal  nnml)er  of 
ministers  and  laymen.  Tlie  saiil  lloanl  siiall  liave  authority  to  elect 
its  own  otiicers  as  it  may  see  lit  ;  tlu'  Treasure!',  howevei'.  always  to 
be  a  layman. 

vir. 

The  conount  of  its  rd/ji/n/  .s/ock.  6 
The  said  Board  oi  (  'iMin  li  Extension  shall  be  empowered  to  estab- 
lish a  Church  Extension  Eund  which  shall  be  kept  intact  and  un- 
diminished as  an  investment,  the  yeai  ly  income  whereof  shall  be 
used  in  aid  of  the  biiildinjidi'  new  honsi  s  of  woi  shi|i  or  of  ])arson- 
ages  ;  or  in  li(|Uidation  of  indciiirdni  s-  i  cstini;-  n|Min  houses  of  wor- 
ship or  pa  rsonaf:;es  :  I'roridcil  that  tlic  inone>-  sliall  lie  invested  in 
real  securities  and  in  such  otliei  securities  as  are  named  in  the  Acts 
of  .\ssemlily  of  Pennsylvatna  autlioriziuL;  in\est luents  by  trustees: 
Provided  further  that  I'lo  loans  ol  lliis  lund  or  any  part  thereof  shall 
be  made  upon  the  security  of  church  proi)erty  ;  and  /'roridfd  further 
that  the  income  of  said  fund  shall  not  be  used  until  the  eajjital  of  the 
fund  shall  have  reached  the  sum  of  Fifty  Thousand  Dollars. 

The  Relative  Functions  and  Duties  of  the  Provincial  and  Dvstrici 
Boards  of  Church  Extension. 

That  the  Synod  refer  this  whole  subject  back  to  the  Pro-  ^^ 
vincial  Board  of  Church  Extension,  for  the  elaboration  of 
a  plan  to  be  submitted  to  the  next  Provincial  Svnod. 
(Journal,  1881,  pp.  58.  84.) 


108 


5?  1  U>.  4.    Christian  Union. 

1  r.  That  we  hail  the  blessed  union-movement  among 
Christian  denominations,  which  has  so  happily  resulted 
from  the  gi-eat  outpouring  of  the  Holy  Spirit  during  the 
last  few  years,  as  a  most  auspicious  and  impoi'tant  sign  of 
the  times,  aiul  that  we  will  join  it  heart  and  soul.  (  Jour- 
nal, i8(>i,  pp.  ry-2.  i 

2  II.  Whek'i,as,  Our  Brethren  of  the  Protestant  Episco- 
pal (jhurcli  luivc  invited  us  and  all  sister  Protestant 
Churches  in  Anu'i  ica  to  unite  with  th<>iii  in  a  conference  to 
be  held  with  a  view  to  promote  godly  union  and  concord 
among  all  who  love  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ  in  sincerity  and 
truth ;  and 

;J  Whereas,  The  fathers  and  founders  of  the  Unitas 
P"'ratrum,  in  the  century  before  the  Protestant  Refoimation 
of  the  16th  Century,  did,  in  the  interests  of  what  they  ac- 
cepted as  the  Faith  of  Christ  and  His  Apostles,  secure  for 
themselves  the  Historic  Episcopate  :  and 

4  Whereas,  From  the  beginning  our  ^loravian  Church 
has,  in  all  the  centuries  of  its  existence  and  activity  in  all 
[)ortions  of  the  Christian  and  heathen  world,  maintained  a 
position  of  most  cordial  recognition  of  and  fellowship  with 
its  Brethren  of  the  \arious  Chuiches  of  Christ,  in  these 
parts,  of  varied  name  and  constitution  : 

5  1.  Rewired.  T\\;\t  we  hail  with  joy  any  effort  put  forth, 
in  good  faith,  to  secure  closer  fellowship  and  communion 
between  the  (Iliurchcs  of  Christ  in  oui-  country. 

<>  2.  Be.soliml,  That  to  this  end  a  Coinniittcc,  consisting  of 
the  five  Bishops  of  the  N^orthern  District  of  (lie  Amci  ican 
Province,  and  of  three  ministerial  and  two  lay  IJietliren  in 
the  District,  be  appointed  to  confer  with  similar  Commit- 
tees of  Conference  at  such  time  and  place  as  may  be  agreed 
upon. 

7  3.  Resolved,  That  we  invoke  upon  the  Churches  in  our 
land,  the  blessing  of  Him  Who  hath  said  :  "  One  is  your 
Master,  even  Christ,  and  all  ye  are  Brethren." 

8  4.  Resolved,  That  this  Preamble  and  these  Resolutions 
with  the  names  of  the  Committee  of  Conference  be  com- 
municated to  the  Secretary  of  the  Commission  by  the 
Secretary  of  Synod.    (Journal,  1888,  pp.  88,  111.) 

The  A  merican  Bible  Society. 

1»  I.  That,  recognizing  the  Holy  Scriptures  as  the  most 
precious  treasure  given  by  God  to  man.  this  Synod  hereby 
expresses  its  sincere  appreciation  of  the  object  and  work  of 


1(»1> 

that  greatest  of  all  the  benevolent  institutions  of  America, 
the  American  Bible  Society,  and  its  gratitude  to  God  for 
the  existence  of  such  an  association  in  the  land. 

[].  That  it  belie\'es  the  past  and  piesent  prosperity  of  1 
our  country  to  be  tlie  result  chiettv  of  tlie  disscnii nation  of 
the  Word 'of  God  as  a('('Oiiii)lis]ied  by  tlie  efforts  of  the 
Auiericaii  Bible  Society,  and  also  tlial  tlie  futiiie  succ<'ssfnl 
coiitinuanee  of  this  re|)ubliean  goxcrnuieiit  de|)ends  upon 
the  coiuluet  of  the  Nation  with  reference  to  that  ^^'ol•d. 

III.  That  we  hereby  extend  to  this  Society  our  warmest  2 
sym])athies  in  the  carrying  out  of  the  objects  of  its  organi- 
zation, and  pledge  to  it  the  hearty  co-operation  of  this  oui- 
branch  of  the  Church  of  God.    (Journal,  lS7fi.  ]>.  101.) 

( Corresponding  Delegates. 

That  in  the  interval  between  this  and  the  next  Provincial  ;$ 
Synod  the  Provincial  Eldeis'  Conference  be  diiected  to 
appoint  Corresponding  Delegates  to  rt'prcsciit  our  Church 
at  the  Synods  of  such  sister  Churches  as  lia\  e  sent  Corre- 
sponding Delegates  to  our  Provincial  S\  nods.  (.lournal, 
1888,  pp.  69.  92.) 

§  117.     EDUCATION  OF  YOUTH. 

In  our  Church  Schools. 

I.  That  the  Synod  solemnly  i-easserts  the  principle  on  4 
which  our  schools  are  grounded,  viz.  :  That  they  are  for  the 
winning  and  educating  of  youth  for  the  Saviour.  (Journal, 
1S7(),  pp.  ,S(;,  ST.  ) 

II.  That  we  gratefully  acknowledge  the  preservation  of  5 
our  Ediical  ional  Institutions,  and  their  continuance 
through  tiicse  trying  times,  as  due,  above  all  else,  to  the  in- 
terposition of  a  kind  Providence,  and  we  desire  so  to  im- 
prove and  employ  these  important  agi  iicics  for  Chiistian 
work  that  the  name  of  Christ  may  theicby  be  abundantly 
glorified. 

III.  That  we  highly  commend  the  pi-aise-worthy  efforts,  (i 
put  forth  to  inci  ease  the  efficiency  of  our  Church  schools, 
by  elevating  the  standard  of  scliolaishii). 

IV.  That  the  regular  conisc  ol'  study  in  all  oui'  ( 'hurch-  7 
schools  shall  include  at  least  one  hour  per  week  of  religious 
instiuction,  to  be  given  by  the  Principal  himself,  or  by 
some  other  competent  person.     (Jouinal,  bSTS.  pp.  140, 
141. ) 


110 


1  V.  That  this  Synod  urges  upon  the  Principals  and  teach- 
ers of  oui  (  Imrcli  schools,  to  continue  to  use  their  best  en- 
deavors to  cai  i.\  out  tlic  system  of  education  which  has 
always  obtained  amongst  us,  and  which  aims  rather  at  im- 
parting thorongh  instruction,  and  laying  a  solid  foundation 
upon  which  the  scholar  shall  ever  be  enabled  to  build,  than 
at  achieving  uioi-e  luilliaiit,  but  more  transient  and  super- 
ficial results,    ulournal,  lN(i4..  i)p.  60,  65.) 

2  VI.  That  this  Synod  fully  approves  of  the  i)lan  now 
pursued  or  proposed  to  be  i^ursued  by  the  I'.onid  of  Tins- 
tees  and  the  Pi'incipals  of  the  Churcii-schoois.  of  grading 
the  compensation  paid  to  teachers  according  to  the  ((uality 
and  length  of  service  rendered. 

.*$  VII.  That  the  religious  instruction  and  training  of  the 
pupils  in  our  Church-schools,  shall  continue  to  form  a  first 
object  of  concern  on  the  pai  t  of  Prhicipals  and  teachers. 
See  Results  of  General  Synod,  l.s.">7,  ii;  91.  (Journal,  1867, 
pp.  97,  101.) 

Teachers  are  Cherished  Servants  of  the  Church. 

4-  I.  That  no  persons  shall  be  received  into  our  schools  as 
teachers  until  the  Princii)al  shall  have  satisfied  himself  as 
to  their  moi-al  and  ("liristian  character,  and  that,  as  a  gen- 
eral rule,  nicuibcis  of  our  ( 'liurch  shall  have  the  preference 
for  such  situations,  when  tiu^r  (lualifications  are  the  same 
as  those  of  other  a]iplicants.    (.lournal.  ISfiT.'pp.  97,  101.) 

5  II.  That  the  Synod  allcctionatel\'  reminds  the  Principals 
and  teachers  of  these  institutions  that  they  are  cherished 
servants  of  the  Church,  thiough  whom  the  duty  of  training 
the  young  should  so  be  dischaiged  that  the  Church  may 
stand  clear  of  the  guilt  of  souls  on  the  great  day  of  the 
Lord.    (Journal,  1S76,  pp.  S6,  <S7.) 

<>  III.  The  duty  of  pensioning  those  teachers  who  have  de- 
voted their  sti-ength  to  service  in  our  Chui  ch-schools,  rests 
in  the  first  instance  on  those  schools  in  which  they  have 
chiefly  or  last  served.    (Synodal  Results,  184S,  §  97.) 

Duty  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  and  the  Principals 
towards  the  Schools. 

7  I.  That  it  be  enjoined  upon  the  Provincial  Elders'  Con- 
fei'cncc  as  a  duty,  to  make  and  keep  themselves  thoroughly 
acquainted  w  ith  l>oth  the  cxteinal  and  internal  concerns  of 
the  educational  institutions  placed  under  their  care. 

II.  That    the    Provincial    Elders'  Conference  be  ex- 
pressly charged  with  the  supervision,  direction  and  conti  ol 


Ill 


of  all  the  ('ducat ioiiai  institutions  of  the  Province  during 
the  intei  val  between  the  adjournment  of  one  Synod  and 
the  convening  of  the  next. 

III.  Tiiat  tlie  Principals  or  Directors  of  the  several  1 
schools  be  leciuired,  at  the  close  of  each  financial  year,  to 
make  out  and  submit  to  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference 
a  correct  and  full  statement  of  the  assets  and  liabilities  of 
the  institutions  committed  to  their  special  direction,  and 
likewise  a  full  and  properly  specified  account  of  the  re- 
ceijits  and  disbursements  of  the  same  during  the  financial 
year. 

lY.  That  the  amount  to  be  paid  over  to  the  Sustentation  2 
Diacony  out  of  the  profits  of  thi'  scIhuiI.  if  there  be  any,  be 
annually  fixed  by  the  Provincial  l^lders'  Conference  after 
due  consultation  with  the  Principal  or  Inspector,  and  after 
having  thoroughly  examined  the  statement  of  accounts 
submitted  by  the  Principal. 

V.  That  at  the  close  of  each  school  year,  a  report  con-  3 
cerning  the  internal  condition  of  the  institution  and  the 
general  results  of  the  oi)erations  of  the  past  year,  be  drawn 
up  by  each  Pi  incipal  or  Director,  and  submitted  to  the 
Provincial  Eldeis'  Conference. 

YI.  That  the  education  and  training  of  those  pupils  in  4 
our  educational  institutions  who  are  the  children  of  (mr 
ministers  or  members  of  our  Church,  be  at  all  times  an 
object  of  the  special  regard  of  the  Inspectors  and  teachers, 
and  that  such  children  may  receive  an  education  and  train- 
ing as  will  in  all  respects  fit  them  for  usefulness  in  the 
various  departments  of  our  Church. 

YII.  That  no  teacher  be  appointed  without  the  knowl-  5 
edge  and  consent  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference. 

VIII.  That  the  salaries  of  all  persons  employed  in  our  O 
educational  institutions  as  teachers  or  otherwise,  domestics 
excepted,  be  fixed  by  the  Principal,  subject  to  the  approval 
of  the  Provincial  Eldeis'  Conference. 

IX.  That  no  new  building  be  erected,  or  extraoi  dinary  7 
and  extensive  repairs  undertaken,  and  in  general  no  ex- 
penses of  any  extraordinary  nature  be  incurred,  without 
the  previous  knowledge  and  consent  of  the  Provincial 
Elders'  Conference. 

X.  That  it  be  enjoined  upon  the  Principals  of  all  our  8 
educational  institutions  as  a  duty  not  to  be  neglected,  to 
keep  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  informed,  by  con-e- 
spondeuce  or  otherwise,  of  everything  of  consequence 
transpiring  in  said  institutions,  relating  to  their  external 
or  internal  concerns. 


112 


1  XI.  That  official  visits  by  at  least  one  member  of  the 
Provincial  Elders'  Conference  be  made  at  least  once  a  year 
in  each  of  our  educational  institutions.  (Journal.  1S58. 
pp.  93-95.) 

XII.  That  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Provincial  Elders' 
Conference  to  hold  an  annual  and  thorough  visitation  of 
each  of  the  Church-schools,  and  to  inform  themselves  by 
personal  examination  concerning  the  actual  scholastic, 
moral,  and  religious  condition  of  these  institutions. 
(Journal,  1870.  p.  70.) 

AK  ACT 

To  Incorpor<Ue  the  Moravian  Seminary  for  )'(>iiii//  Ladif.s  at  Bethle- 
hem, PennstjlvfDiin. 

li  Wherkas,  Tlie  Church  of  the  United  Brethren,  iconinionly  called 
Moravians!  has  maintained  a  Boarding  School  for  the  ednciation  of 
Young-  Tja<lios  at  lietiilehem,  Northanijiton  County,  Pa.,  since  the 
year  one  llidiisainl  seven  hundred  and  eiirhty-ti\'P  ;  and 

4-  Wni'.UKAs.  'I'hi'  cdurse  of  studies  luirsucd  in  said  institution  eni- 
l)rai-<'s  tile  \:ii  ioiis  branches  of  the  arts,  sciences.  I i I e lat lire,  and  the 
ancient  and  nKiiU.'in  languages,  usually  pursu<'(l  in  the  highest 
institutions  of  a  similar  kind  ;  and 

it  Whereas,  It  is  deemed  by  the  authorities  of  said  Church  to  be 
advisable  and  necessary  for  the  more  convenient  management  of 
the  concerns  of  said  school,  to  have  said  school  incorporated; 

<i  Sec.  I. — Be  it  enacted  by  the  Senate  and  House  of  Representatives 
of  the  Commonwealth  of  Pennsylvania,  in  <  Jeiieral  Assembly  met,  and 
it  is  hereby  enacted  by  the  authoritv  ot  ilie  same 

7  That  the  Right  Reverend  .John  Christian  .Ta(  ol)son.  Bishop,  and  the 
Reverend  Francis  Florentine  Hagen,  and  the  Reverend  Sylvester 
Wolle,  all  of  the  borough  of  Bethlehem,  duly  elected  by  the  Synod  of 
the  Northern  District  of  the  American  Province  of  the  rnite(i  Breth- 
ren, a  Board  of  Direction  of  the  ecclesiastical  atiaiis  of  sai. I  Church 
in  said  District,  and  likewise  constituted  bv  virtue  of  theii  uiiice,  the 
Board  of  Trustees  of  said  Boarding  School,  and  such  other  persons 
as  may  hereafter  lie  appointed  their  associates  or  snei'essors.  accord- 
ing to  the  rules  and  regulations  of  said  branch  of  the  church  of  the 
United  Brethren,  be  and  they  are  hereliv  constitute  1  a  liody  cori)orate 
and  politic,  in  fact  and  in  law",  by  tlie  name  and  style  of  "  The  Moravian 
Seminary  for  Young  Ladies  at  Bethlehem,  Pennsylvania,  "  and  by 
that  narne  shall  be  capable  of  perpetual  succession^  may  sne  and  be 
sued,  may  have  and  use  a  common  seal,  and  alter  and  change  the 
same  at  pleasure,  and  shall  also  be  capable  to  accept  and  take,  by 
devise,  grant,  bargain,  sale  or  otherwise,  any  estate,  or  propertj', 
real  or  personal,  and  the  same  to  hold  and  en.joy,  or  to  sell  and  con- 
\  ey,  lease,  or  mortgage,  asfnllv  and  absolutely,  in  all  respects,  as  any 
na'tnial  person  might  do.  Pro'ridi'i! ,  however.  That  the  clear  annual 
iueoine  of  1  in'  estate  and  properties  of  said  Coriioration.  exclusive  of 
any  lands  or  tenements  that  may  be  occui)ied  b^'  said  school  for  its 
accommodations,  or  tliat  of  its  officers  or  professors,  and  exclusive  of 
income  from  students,  shall  not  exceed  the  sum  of  Ten  Thotisand 
Dollars. 

S  Sec.  II.— That  the  Trustees  already  appointed,  or  who  shall  here- 
after be  appointed  in  accordance  with  the  fundamental  statutes  which 
govern  the  Church  of  the  United  Brethren  aforesaid,  shall  have  the 


113 


care  and  management  of  said  school,  and  of  its  estates  and  properties, 
and  shall  have  power  to  make  all  necdfnl  bj'-laws  and  regulations  for 
the  appointment  of  competent  jirofcssors  and  teacliers,  for  the  fixing 
and  payment  of  all  salaries,  for  the  fixing  of  prices  of  the  board  and 
tuition' of  students,  for  the  studies  and  oxerciises  of  the  students,  and 
for  the  general  well-being  of  said  scliool.  Provided,  That  tlio  said 
statutes,  by-laws  and  regulations  shall  not  bo  inconsisti^il  w  ith  tho 
Constitution  and  laws  of  tins  Commonwealth,  or  of  ilic  l  iiiiiMl 
States,  or  the  enactments  of  tlie  Synod  of  said  Church  of  the  l  uited 
Brethren. 

Sec.  III.— That  no  misnomer,  or  misdirection  of  the  said  Corpora-  1 
tion,  in  anv  will,  deed,  grant,  or  other  instrument  of  writing,  shall 
vitiate  or  defeat  the  same,  but  that  the  same  shall  take  elfect  in  the 
same  manner  as  if  said  Corjioration  were  rightly  named  therein. 
Provided,  That  it  is  sufficiently  described  to  ascertain  the  intention 
of  the  parties. 

Sec.  IV. — That  the  Trustees,  in  connection  with  the  President  or  2 
Principal  of  said  Seminary  and  his  assistants,  shall  have  power  to 
grant  and  confer  such  degrees  in  the  liberal  arts  and  sciences,  or 
such  branches  thereof,  to  such  students  of  thr  Scmiiuii  N-.  or  others,  as 
from  their  proficiency  in  learning  they  nia\  il.  i m  jusily  untitled  to 
such  honors,  and  such  as  are  usually  graiUi  'l  liy  iiwiitutions  of  a 
similar  kind,  and  to  grant  diplomas  or  certilicales  under  their  com- 
mon seal,  as  may  authenticate  and  perpetuate  the  memory  of  such 
graduation. 

JOHN  CESSNA, 
Speaker  of  the  House  of  Itepresentatives. 

G.  V.  LAWRENCE, 
Speaker  of  the  Senate. 

Approved,  The  third  day  of  April,  Anno  Domini  one  thousand 
eight  hundred  and  sixty-three. 

A.  G.  CURTIN. 

AN  ACT 

To  Incorporate  the  Linden  Hall  Seminary  at  Lititz,  Lancaster  County, 
Pennsylvania. 

Whereas,  Tlie  Church  of  the  United  Brethren  (commonly  called  3 
Moravians)  has  maintained  a  Boarding  School  for  Young  Ijadies  at 
Lititz,  Lancaster  County,  since  the  year  one  thousand  eight  hundred  ; 
and 

W^HEREAS,  The  course  of  studies  pursued  in  said  institution  em-  4 
braces  tlie  various  branches  of  the  arts,  scdences,  literature,  and  the 
ancient  and  modern  languages,  usually  pursued  in  the  best  institu- 
tions of  a  similar  kind  ;  and 

Whereas,  It  is  deemed  by  the  authorities  of  said  Church  to  be  o 
advisable  and  necessary  for  the  further  well-being  and  the  more  con- 
venient management  of  the  concerns  - of  said  school  to  have  said 
school  incorporated ; 

Therefore, 

Section  I.— Be  it  enacted  by  the  Senate  and  House  of  Representa-  6 
tives  of  the  Commonwealth  of  Pennsylvania,  in  General  Assembly 
met,  and  it  is  hereby  enacted  by  the  authoritj'  of  the  same 

That  the  Right  Reverend  Joiin  CUiristian"  .Tacobson,  Bishop,  and  7 
the  Reverend  Francis  Florentine  Hatjon,  and  tlie  Reverend  Sylvester 
8 


114 


Wolle,  all  of  tlio  bormmh  of  HpthleliPiii,  dulv  electod  by  the  Svnod 
of  the  Noiilicrn  Districl  of  llic  Aincricnii  i'roviiice  of  the  United 
Brethren.  :i  lioard  nt'  liircriiou  of  ihc  i  rclcsiast ical  alfairs  of  said 
Cliiirch  ill  sai.l  1  Msl  rirt ,  aiK  I  likewise  .niisl  ii  iilcd  h\-  virtlie  of  their 
ollice,  till'  Hoard  o|  Tnislers  .,1'  said  Unaidiii-  S.-liool.  and  such  other 
persons  as  nia\-  ]«•  liercallrr  a  1 1)  >.  >i  nU  1  llicir  associates  or  sncccssors, 
accor.lin-  lo  ifiu  rnlcs  and  ic-n  lal  i.  .ns  .  .t  sa  id  luancli  nf  I  he  <  ■hurcli 
of  the  I'nite.l  I'.relhrcn,  lie  and  lhe\  are  hcrelij'  constilnted  a  body 
eoi  porad'  ami  polilic'.  in  taci  and  in  law,  by  the  name  and  style  of 
tile  Linden  llall  Se  n  n  na  r  \  .  a  t  Lit  it/.,  reniisy  Ivania,  and  by  that  name 
shall  be  capMlilc  ol  perpelnal  snccession,  may  sno  and  be  sned,  may 
lia\  (■  and  use  a  c.inirnou  seal,  and  alter  ami  change  the  same  at  plea- 
sure, and  s  I  im  1 1  also  be  capable  to  accept  and  take,  by  devise,  grant, 
bai-ain.  sale  or  Mlherwisc,  ai\>-  estate,  ov  projiei'ty,  real  or  personal, 
and  the  s  inu-  1"  hold  ioid  vujo\',  or  to  sell  or  <-on\-ev,  le.ase,  or  mort- 
gage, as  fii  II  v  and  abs,.lutcl\-,  in  all  respects,  as  auV  natural  ]>ersoM 
might  do.  'I'n.rnlr.l.  Ii,,\\  <  ver,  Tliat  the  .'Icai'  .annual  income  uf  the 
estates  an<l  pre  ipc  i  t  ics  ,  ,|  sa  id  (  '(u'porat  ion,  e  x<-l  usi  \  c  of  an\  lands  or 
teiu'unMils  Ih.at  may  be  .MMnpied  li\  said  schuol  lbi-  its  aecommoda- 
tions,  oi-  that  of  its  ollicci  s  ,,v  leachers,  .ami  <-.xclusi\  <'  of  income  from 
sludeuls,  shall  m.l  .'x-'cd  the  sum  of  fen  Thousand  Hollars. 

Sr]i'.  n.  -Thal  the  Trusties  alrc.id\-  appointed,  <u-  w  lio  shall  here- 
after beappoiulcd  in  a  rdancc  w  ilii  the  fi  1 1  c  I  a  1 1 1  en  t  a  I  slaliiles  which 

govern  the  Chureb  of  Ihc  rniO'd  i'.reihreu  :,i.,resaid.  shall  have  the 
care  and  management  ofsaid  schi.ol,  .and  .  .f  i  ts  est  ates  a  i  id  pi'opcr- 
tics,  and  shall  have  pow.u-  ti.  make  all  ii  Hu  I  b\ daws  and  regula- 
tions Ibr  the  appointment  < .t  co m pel la 1 1  professors  and  teachers,  for 
the  fi.xing  and  pavmenl  of  all  salaries,  Ibr  the  fixing  of  prices  ot 
board  ami  liiiliou  of  students,  tbi-  the  studies  and  e.xercises  of  the 
students,  ami  lor  the  -ciieial  \\clld,eing  of  said  s(diooI.  Vrovidcd, 
That  the  said  slatules,  li\-la\\s  and  re.:  1 1 1  a  I  i(  u  is  shall  not.  be  ineon- 
sislcnt  w  ith  I  he  ( 'oust  it  ul  ion  and  hn\  s  ol  this  Commonwealth,  or  of 
the  United  Slatt  s,  m-  the  enactments  of  the  Synods  of  said  Church  of 
the  United  Brethren. 

Si'.c.  TIT.— That  no  misnomer,  or  misdirection  of  the  said  Corpora- 
tion, in  an\-  will,  dei'd,  grant,  or  other  instrument  of  writing,  shall 
vilil.ate  or  dct'c.il  the  same,  but  that  the  same  shall  take  efi'ect  in  the 
same  niaiincr  .as  if  said  ( 'orporation  were  rightly  named  tlierein. 
7'/e/  /(/c,/,  Th.al  it  is  sullicicndv'  described  to  ascertain  the  intention 
of  Ihc  parties. 

Si:i'.  I  \'.  -That  the  Trustees,  in  connection  with  the  President  or 
rriucipal  of  saiil  Seni i na r\- and  his  assistants,  sJiall  have  power  to 
grant  and  confer  such  degrees  in  thi^  liberal  arts  ami  sciences,  or  such 
branches  Ihereof,  to  such  sliideiils  of  Ihc  Seniinar\-,  or  others,  as 
from  their  i>rolici(aicy  in  leai  iiiiig,  llicy  uia.\  deem  Justly  entitled  to 
such  honors,  and  such  as  ari^  usually  granted  \>y  institutions  of  a 
sinnlar  kind,  and  to  gi  ant  dii)Iomas  "or  certificate's  under  their  com- 
mon seal,  as  imiv  authenticate  and  perpetuate  the  memori' of  such 
graduati(jii. 

JOHN  CESSNA, 
tSpcAiker  of  the  House  of  liejn-esetilatives. 

G.  V.  LAWRENCE, 
Speaker  of  the  Senate. 

Approved,  The  third  day  of  April,  Anno  Domini  one  thousand 
eight  hundred  and  sixty-three. 

A.  G.  CURTIN. 


Nazareth  HaU. 

I.  That  the  Trustees  and  Principal  of  Nazareth  Hall  in  1 
coniiectiou  with  such  other  assistance  as  they  may  wish  to 
call  to  their  aid,  endeavor  to  pi-ocuie  from  the  friends  of 
the  institution  contributions  towards  its  endowment. 

II.  That  the  Principal  of  Nazareth  Hall  .<:ive  his  earnest  52 
attention  to  the  subject  of  the  feasiliility  of  a  division  of 
the  pupils  into  two  departments,  tlic  ydiiiiL^cr  of  which 
shall  remain  under  the  same  watchful  miardiaiislii])  as  now, 
the  older  to  have  some  en  la  it;c<l  libcitics.  that  sliall  not.  at 
the  same  time,  conflict  with  a  careful  suixMvision  over 
them,  and  that  he  be  at  liberty,  after  snbinitting  the  plan 
to  the  approval  of  the  Provincial  Kldcrs"  ("(inference,  to 
carry  the  same  into  effect.  (Journal,  bs(i7,  pp.  97,  98, 
101.) 

AN  ACT 

To  Incorporate  the  Nazareth  Hall  Boarding  School,  at  Nazareth, 
Pennsi/Irania. 

Whereas,  Tho  Climeh  of  the  United  Bretliren  {comnionlj'  cnlled  3 
Moravians)  has  cstulilishcil  and  maintained  a  Boarding  iSchool  for 
Boys  at  Nazareth,  Northanqiton  County,  since  the  year  one  thousand 
seven  hundred  and  eiglity-li  ve  ;  and 

Whereas,  It  is  deemed  by  the  authorities  of  said  Church,  to  be  4r 
advisable  and  necessary  for  the  more  convenient  management  of  the 
concerns  of  said  school  to  have  said  school  incorporated ; 

Therefore, 

Section  I.— Be  it  enacted  by  the  Senate  and  House  of  Representa-  5 
tives  of  the  Commonv.'ealth  of  Pennsylvania,  in  General  Assembly 
met,  and  it  is  hereby  enacted  by  the  authority  of  the  same 

That  the  Right  Reverend  John  Christian  Jaeobson,  Bishop,  and  the  6 
Reverend  Francis  Florentine  Hagen,  and  the  Reverend  Sjdvester 
Wolle,  all  of  the  borough  of  Bethleliem,  duly  elected  by  the  Synod 
of  the  Northern  District  of  the  American  Province  of  the  United 
Brethren,  a  Board  of  Direction  of  the  ecclesiastical  atfairs  of  said 
Church  in  said  District,  and  likewise  constituted  Ijy  virtue  of  their 
office,  the  Board  of  Trustees  of  said  Boarding  Scliool,  and  such  otlier 
persons  as  may  be  hereafter  ap))ointed  their  associates  or  successors, 
according  to  the  rules  and  regulations  of  said  Ijranch  of  the  Clnii ch 
of  the  United  Brethren,  be  and  thoy  are  liereliy  constituted  a  body 
corporate  and  politic,  in  fact  and  in  law  ,  l)y  the  name  and  style  of 
Nazareth  Hall  Boarding  Scliool,  and  liy  that  name  shall  lie  capaljk-  of 
perpetual  succession,  may  sue  and  he  suiil,  may  have  and  usea  com- 
mon seal,  and  alter  and  chani;!' 1  he  same  at  ]iloasure.  and  shall  also 
be  capable  to  accept  and  take,  \<y  il(  \i-.c,  L:i  aiit,  bargain,  sale  or  other- 
wise, any  estate  or  property,  real  i<v  pci  soual,  and  the  same  to  hold 
and  enjoy,  or  to  sell  and  convev,  h  asc  m-  mortgage,  as  fully  and  ab- 
solutely, in  all  respects,  as  any  ualuial  |iersoii  miglit  do.  j  mviilcd, 
however.  That  the  clear  annual  inconu'  of  the  estates  au<l  ])i-o[)erties 
of  said  Corporation,  exchisi\  e  of  an\-  lands  or  tenements  tlial  ma>-  be 
occupied  by  said  school  for  its  accommodations,  or  that  of  its  ofiicers 
or  professors,  and  exclusive  of  income  from  students,  shall  not  ex- 
ceed the  sum  of  Ten  Thousand  Dollars. 


116 


1  Sep.  it. — Tliat  tlio  Trnstoos  ;iiul  Ovorsoers  nlready  appointed,  or 
who  shall  liiTi-aricr  ho  appoiiif  cd  in  nccoi-daiKM'  with  t'ho  fundamental 
statutes  w  lii>h  uo\rrii  i  In  >  i 'liii  nli  ( .1  1  lie  1' ii  i  led  l{rotliren  aforesaid, 
shall  I  lir  ,  an-  1 1 1 :i iia- t.  i i ic 1 1 1  ui  said  school,  and  of  its  estates 
and  |)ro|M  i  I  ics.  and  shall  lia\  o  iiowor  to  make  all  needful  by-laws 
and  I  (\uul  ii  ions  tor  tlie  aiipointment  of  competent  professors  and 
tea.  Ii.  i  s,  lor  I  he  lixiui;-  and  payment  of  all  salaries,  for  the  fixing  of 
prices  of  ihe  hoard  and  tuition  of  Students,  for  the  studies  and  exer- 
cises oC  ihe  students,  and  for  the  general  well-beiiig  of  said  school. 
Pmrnlri/.  That  the  said  statutes,  by-laws  and  regulations  shall  not 
be  inconsistent  w  ith  llie  Constitution  and  laws  of  this  Commonwealth, 

.   or  of  the  rnitod  States. 

2  Sec.  III.— That  no  misnomer,  or  misdirection  of  the  said  Corpora- 
tion, in  any  will,  deed,  grant,  or  other  instrument  of  writing,  shall 
vitjate  or  defeat  the  same,  but  that  the  same  shall  take  effect  in  the 
same  manner  as  if  said  Corporation  were  rightly  named  therein. 
/'nin'ilnl,  11  is  sntliciently  described  to  ascertain  tlie  intention  of  the 
parties. 

JOHN  CESSNA, 
Speaker  of  the  Hoiixeof  RepreacntaUves. 

G.  V.  LAWRENCE, 
Speaker  of  the  Senate, 

Apiirovod,  The  fourteenth  day  of  April,  Anno  Domini  one  thou- 
sand eight  hundred  and  sixt3f-three. 

A.  G.  CURTIN. 
§  119.     CHURCH  PUBLICATIONS. 

Moraoian  Publication  Office. 

I.  Tlial  Mh"  duty  and  intorosts  of  the  Cliurch  demand 
that  a  sticinKms  efloi  t  slioiild  be  made  to  use  the  instru- 
mentality ol'  tlie  pjess,  ;ts  a  powerful  agency  in  promoting 
the  work  wliieh  belotigs  to  every  Cliui'ch  of  Christ. 

4  II.  That  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  be  authorized, 
whenever  they  deem  such  a  step  practicable,  to  create  a 
printing  and  pul)lishiiiq'  establishment,  in  which  shall  be 
published  the  ( "hurch-papcr,  and  from  time  to  time,  as 
occasion  demands  and  the  funds  of  the  concern  will  allow, 
works  i  t'laliiig  to  the  history,  polity,  ritual  and  doctrine  of 
the  ('liiiicli.  jirovided  that  this  can  be  done  without  in- 
fringing upon  the  interests  of  other  established  funds  and 
enterprises  of  the  Church.    (Jotii  iial,  ISbl,  pp.  r>2,  53.) 

5  III.  That  Synod  authorizes  the  rrovincial  Elders'  Con- 
ference to  combine  the  printing  office  and  book-store,  to 
gether  with  a  bindery,  in  one  establishment.  (Journal, 
l.S()7.  pp.  74,  75.) 

(>  T  V.  \Vin;REAS,  We  believe  the  following  to  be  the  cor- 
rect i»iin(i[)les  for  the  management  of  the  entire  Publica- 
tion Concern,  and  to  be  in  accord  with  the  original  pur- 
pose :  1.  The  regarding  of  the  Church-jjapers,  the  job 


117 

priutiiig,  and  publisliiug  department,  the  l)ut)k-ston',  etc., 
as  integral  ijarts  of  one  inseparable  concern  ;  2.  The  merg- 
ing of  the  separate  financial  interests  of  each  department 
into  one  whole  ;  3.  The  responsible  management  of  the  en- 
tire (^oncern  by  a  Secretary  of  P>iblications  under  the 
direction  of  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference, 

Resolved,  That  Synod  instructs  the  Provincial  I^lders'  Con-  \ 
ference  to  carry  this  plan  into  effect,  as  fully  as  may  be  feasible, 
during  the  next  Synodal  term,    f  Journal,  1S84,  pp.  (JO,  61. ) 

V.  That  the  Publication  Office  be  deemed  one  of  the  per-  2 
manent  enterprises  of  the  Church,  to  be  carried  on  in  ^he 
future  upon  substantially  the  same  basis  as  at  present. 
(Journal,  188S,  pp.  75,  93.) 

VI.  That  the  Joint  Board  be  authorized  to  provide  the  3 
money  needed  for  a  fii-e-proof  vaiilt,  for  additional  press- 
room, for  additional  presses,  for  an  elevator  and  for  an 
office  on  the  ground  floor ;  promded,  that  a  reasonal)le  in- 
crease in  the  rent  is  made  in  order  to  cover  the  interest  on 
the  money  needed  for  the  improvements  in  tlu-  Iniilding  : 
and  provided,  further,  that  interest  be  charged  and  ac- 
counted for  on  that  needed  for  better  equipment  of  the 
Printing  Department.    (Joiu-nal,  1888,  pp.  82,  98.  ) 

YII.  That  ministers  and  other  agents  be  requested  to  be  4 
more  careful  and  j^rompt  in  settling  their  accounts  with  the 
Bethlehem  book-store.  '(Journal,  1864,  pp.  63,  64.) 

VIII.  That  the  Manager  of  the  Publication  Concern  be  5 
instructed  to  endeavor  to  bring  about  cash  dealings  with 
the  ministers  and  other  authorized  agents  of  the  Publica- 
tion Concern.    (Journal,  1888,  pp.  82,  98.) 

IX.  That  a  settlement  with  the  agent  of  the  book-store  6 
at  Bethlehem  shall  be  made  every  three  months.  (Jour- 
nal, 1861,  pp.  50,' 62.) 

X.  That  the  Advisory  Financial  Board  be  requested  and  7 
empowered  to  make  an  annual  examination  of  the  man- 
agement and  condition  of  the  Publication  Office,  and  re- 
port to  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  the  result  of  such 
examination.    (Journal.  1881,  pp.  ,53,  81.) 

A  History  of  the  Brethren'' s  Church. 

That  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  take  measui  es  for  8 
the  early  publication  of  a  History  of  the  Moravian  Breth- 
ren's Church.    (Journal.  1864.  pp.  .52,  53.) 


118 


Appendix  to  the  Text  Book. 

1  That  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  prepare  or  cause 
to  be  prepared,  each  year,  a  short  appendix  to  the  annual 
Text  Book,  which  shall  contain  a  table  of  daily  Scripture 
lessons,  interesting  facts  in  connection  with  the  history  of 
the  Church  and  its  Missions,  the  statistics  of  the  same,  and 
any  other  matter  which  may  be  calculated  to  inform  and 
edify — this  appendix  to  be  confined  to  such  a  nximber  of 
pages,  as  will  not  materially  enhance  the  price  of  the  book. 
(Journal,  1864,  pp.  52,  53.) 

The  Moravian  Manual. 

2  I.  That  a  Committee  of  One  be  appointed  by  the  Provin- 
cial Elders'  Conference  to  jjrepare  for  publication  a  new 
and  revised  edition  of  "The  Moravian  Manual,"  the  man- 
uscript to  be  submitted  to  the  Provincial  Elders'  Confer- 
ence for  approval,  before  it  is  published. 

3  II.  That  the  publication  of  such  Manual  be  delayed 
until  after  the  meeting  of  tlie  next  General  Synod.  (Jour- 
nal, 1888,  pp.  37,  62.) 

T7te  Sunday -School  Hymn- Book. 

4  That  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  be  requested  to 
api)oint  a  Committee  of  five  brethren  to  thoroughly  revise 
the  English  Sunday-school  Hymn-book,  and  that  said  Com- 
mittee include  at  least  two  laymen  specially  interested  in 
Sunday-school  work.    (Journal,  1888,  pp.  75,  93.) 

Communion  lAturgies. 

5  I.  Tliat  the  Secretary  of  Publications  be  authorized  to 
insert  English  and  German  Liturgies  in  full,  instead  of  in 
outline  :is  at  present,  in  the  Hymn-book,  and  that  these 
litui  uics  he  also  pi  iuted  separately  in  book  form. 

(>  11.  Tliat  the  number  of  these  liturgies  be  increased  to  at 
least  eight. 

7  III.  That  two  Committees  of  three  each  be  appointed  by 
the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  to  compile  these  liturgies. 
(Journal,  ISSS,  pp.  75,  93.) 

8  IV.  That  in  preparing  the  Communion  Hymn-book  care 
be  exercised  to  use  such  tunes  only  as  are  familiar  through- 
out the  Province.    '  Journal,  1888,  p.  115.) 


Questiotis. ' 

That  the  following  questions  be  addressed  to  the  Secre-  1 
taiy  of  Publications  : 

1.  State  the  number  of  Church  periodicals  taken  in  the  2 
congregations. 

2.  How  many  new  subscribers  to  the  several  riiurch- 
papers  have  you  or  the  agent  in  your  congregation  secui'ed 
during  the  last  Synodieal  term  ?  ( Journal,  1873,  pp.  63,  <>4 ; 
1876,  pp.  66,  67;  1888,  pp.  98,  111.) 


Financial  JRules,  etc. 

I.  That  our  ministers  use  all  their  influence  to  increase  -t 
the  circulation  of  our  Church-papers,  and  that  they  ap- 
point a  lay  member  of  their  congregations  to  solicit  sub- 
scribers for  those  papers.    (Joui  nal,  1861,  p.  64.) 

II.  That  a  brothei'  hr  apixiiuted  in  each  congregation  as  5 
agent  for  the  Ohurcli  ])ap(  is,  and  that  the  ministers  be 
urged  to  co-operate  heartily  with  the  agents  in  extending 
their  circulation.    (Journal,  1884,  p.  60.) 

III.  That  the  Secretary  of  Publications  be  authorized  by  « 
Synod  to  employ  Cain  assin.u  Agents  fdi- oiir  < ']un  ('li  iiai)ers, 
with  the  liberty  of  olfcring  siicli  rcniuiicrat ion  to  said 
agents  as  will  secui-e  the  object  of  their  appointment. 
(Journal,  1888,  pp.  37,  62.) 


The  Editorial  Committees. 

I.  That  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  be  empowered  7 
to  appoint  an  Editorial  Committee  for  each  of  the  Church - 
papers,  to  consist  of  not  less  than  three  brethren,  one  of 
whom  shall  be  designated  as  the  Eespousible  Managing 
Editor. 

II.  That  no  salaries  be  paid  to  tlie  Editorial  Committees,  -8 
but  that  these  Committees  .shall  receive  such  fees  for  their 
services  from  the  net  profits  of  the  papers  as  the  I'rovin- 
cial  Elders'  Conference  shall  deem  proper,  and  that  all 
necessary  expenses  of  stationery,  postage  and  occasional 
consultations,  if  these  shall  be  deemed  necessary,  shall  be 
paid  out  of  the  receipts  of  the  papers.  (Journal,  1881,  p. 
87.) 


120 


THE  MORAVIAN. 

Creative  Resolution. 

1  That  a  weekly  paper  be  issued  *  *  *  *  under  the 
title  of  The  Moravian.    (Journal,  1855,  pp.  136,  137.) 

Course  of  the  Paper  Sanctioned  and  Prescribed. 

3  That  Synod  approves  of  the  course  taken  by  the  Editors 
of  The  Moravian  in  the  publication  of  said  paper,  and  that 
they  be  recjuested  to  continue  in  the  course  hitherto  pur- 
sued by  them,  to  admit  all  communications  drawn  up  in  a 
brotherly  spirit,  and  free  from  personalities,  and  which 
have  a  tendency  towards  a  free  discussion  of  everything 
belonging  to  our  Church  and  its  government.  (Journal, 
1856,  p.  99.) 

The  Chu7-ch  Paper  is  Indispensable. 

i  That  our  Church-paper  shall  hereafter  occupy  a  fully 
recognized  position  as  an  indispensable  branch  of  Church 
activity  and  usefulness,  and  that  it  deserves  the  universal 
support  of  our  membership.    (Journal,  1861,  pp.  52,  53.) 

Payment  of  Coi'respondents  and  Writo's. 

4  That  the  Editor  of  The  Moravian  be  authorized  to  em- 
ploy correspondents  and  writers,  who  shall  receive  a 
reasonable  compensation,  which  expense  shall  be  paid  out 
of  the  income  of  TIw  Moravian.    (Journal,  1870,  p.  90.) 

Increase  of  Circulation. 

5  That  ministers  be  especially  charged  to  make  it  a  duty  to 
see  that  the  circulation  of  The  Moravian  be  increased  in 
their  congregations,  and  at  each  District  Synod  and  Pro- 
vincial Synod  report  the  number  of  copies  taken.  (Jour- 
nal, 1873,  pp.  73,  74.) 

DER  BRUEDER  BOTSCHAFTER. 

Creative  Resolution. 

That  as  soon  as  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  shall  be 
satisfied  of  the  feasibility  of  issuing  a  German  weekly  or 
semi moiithly  Church  paper,  such  a  publication  shall  be 
commenced,  the  form,  subscrij^tion  price  and  editorship  of 
such  journal  to  be  determined  by  them.  (Journal,  1861, 
pp.  52,  53.) 


121 


Alio  Indispensable. 

That  Der  Brueder  BoLschaftcr  xhnU  liciealYei',  ('(Hially  with  1 
The  Moravian,  occupy  a  fully  leco^nizcd  position  as  an  indis- 
pensable branch  of  Church  acti\  ity  and  usefulness,  and 
that  Synod  recommend  the  ministers  and  members  of  the 
Church  to  use  their  best  efibrts  to  increase  its  circuhition. 
(Journal,  18(57,  p.  75.) 

Call  for  Support. 

That  this  Synod  recommend  to  the  German  brethren  in  2 
the  ministry  to  furnish  such  original  matter  for  the  Bot- 
schafter  as  would  interest  the  members  of  their  charges,  so 
as  to  make  it  self-supporting  or  even  profitable,  and  to  use 
their  influence  to  obtain  subscribers.  (Journal,  1870,  p. 
90.) 

To  be  Issued  Weekly. 

That  the  Botschafter  be  issued  weekly,  if  deemed  advisable  3 
by  the  Secretary  of  Publications  and  the  Provincial  Elders' 
Conference.    (Journal,  1873,  p.  74.) 

Enlargement  Permitted. 

That  the  Synod  authorize  the  enlargement  of  Der  Brueder  4 
Botschafter,  if  the  Provincial  Elders'  Conference  and  the 
Secretary  of  Publications  are  satisfied  that  in  any  way  the 
necessary  means  can  be  provided.    (Journal,  1888,  pp.  75, 
93,  95.) 

THE  LITTLE  MISSIONARY. 

Creative  Besolution. 

That  the  Editor  of  The  Moravian  in  connection  with  the  5 
Provincial  Elders'  Conference,  be  authorized  to  make  ar- 
rangements for  the  early  publication  of  a  Child's  Paper, 
for  the  use  of  our  Sunday-schools,  if  they  find  it  expedient. 
(Journal,  1870,  p.  90.) 

Duty  of  Ministers  and  Sunday  School  Superintendents. 

That  we  regard  it  to  be  the  duty  of  all  our  ministers  and  6 
Sunday-school  superintendents,  in  selecting  illustrated 
papeis  for  the  Sunday-seliool,  to  .uive  the  pri'lerence  to  our 
own  [)ul)lieation,  Tltc  Liltle  Mi-s.^i'^niari/,  which  was  brought 
into  existence  by  act  of  Synod,  is  well  calculated  to  alford 
solid  instruction,  and  can  only  improve  in  its  exterior  at- 
tractiveness if  more  liberally  patronized  by  our  congrega- 
tions.   (Journal,  1878,  p.  141.) 


122 


DJ:R  MISSIt)NS  KKEUND. 

Ci-eative  BesoMion. 

I.  That  a  montlily  German  Sunday-school  paper,  simihir 
to  The  Little  Missionary,  be  published,  commencing  with 
January,  1889,  in  the  confident  hope  that  the  Directors  of 
the  Society  for  Propagating  the  Gospel  among  the  Heathen 
will  aid  the  enterprise. 

II.  That  a  Committee  be  appointed  by  the  Provincial 
Elders'  Conference  to  edit  the  same,  said  Committee  to  be 
selected,  if  possible,  from  among  the  brethren  who  serve 
German  congregations.    (Journal,  1888,  pp.  76,  96.) 


INDEX. 


[Of  two  flsiires  separated  by  a  comma,  the  first  indicates  the  page,  tlie  other  the  iiiarKiiial 
reference;  e.  <i.,  36, 4,  means  X\\e  fourth  resolution  beginning  on  imge  2(i.j 


Abandoned  Congregations,  prop- 
erty of,  92,  3,  4. 

Abstaining  from  the  Lord's  Sup- 
per, 6,  5. 

Abstinence,  total,  urged,  26,  4. 

Acolouths,  41,  6. 

Admission  to  Membership,  19,  2. 
Admission  of  Congregations,  14,  4. 
Advisory  Finance,  Board,  The,  84, 

4 ;  85,  6  ;  92,  6-93,  6. 
Advocates  of  the  Foreign  Missions, 

96,  10. 

Aid  of  Home  Mission  Churches 
from  the  Fund,  14,  1. 

Alterations  in  the  Provincial  Con- 
stitution, 61,  2  ;  75,  1. 

American  Bible  Societv,  108,  9- 
109,  2. 

American  Province,  Relation  of 
the,  to  the  Unity,  1,  1,  2;  of  its 
parts  to  each  other,  1,  3,  4. 

Amusements,  25,  2,  3. 

Annihilation  of  the  Wicked,  The, 

Announcement  of  Exclusion  and 
Readmission,  19,  5. 

Annual  Abstract  of  the  Sustenta- 
tion  Fund,  86,  5. 

Annual  Collections,  The,  90,  2-6. 

Annual  Collection  for  Retired 
Ministers,  89,  1-4. 

Annual  Collection  for  the  Theolo- 
gical Seminary,  35,  6-36,  I. 

Annual  Meeting  to  consider  the 
spiritual  interests  of  the  congre- 
gation, 11,  3. 

Annual  Mission  Sermons,  95,  6. 

Annual  Reports,  21,  3,  4. 

Annual  Reports  of  Treasurers, 
14,  2. 

.Vnnual  .Sermon  on  Church  Disci- 
pline. 18.  3. 

Annual  Statistics,  The.  77,  5. 

Annual  Tabular  Statement,  103,  4, 

Appeal.  Kiylu  of,  to  Department  of 
the  Unity,  53,  2,  3 ;  .54,  2  ;  59,  2 ;  to 


General  Synods,  45,  I;  to  P.  E.  C. 
(See  also  ?  83,  Synodal  Results  of 
1879),  10.  3  ;  28,  2;  30,  5,  6;  to  Pro- 
vincial Synods,  19,  3 ;  58, 3,  g ;  60,A:. 

Appointment  of  Pastors,  30,  5-31,  3. 

Archives,  The,  93,  7-94,  3. 

Assistants  in  preaching,  41,  3. 

Attendance  of  Children  at  Church, 
3,  1. 

"  Band-meetings,"  for  an  account 
of  personal  experiences,  7,  4. 

Baptism,  Adult,  confers  member- 
ship, 6,  2. 

Baptism,  Infant,  6,  8,  9. 

Baptism,  Mode  of,  5,  10 ;  6,  1. 

Baptism,  Pastor's  duty,  5,  6,  7 ;  to 
be  in  the  church,  5,  8. 

Bethlehem  Young  Ladies'  Semi- 
nary (see  Cliun'h  Schools). 

Bible' Classes,  16,  6,  7. 

Bishops  and  the  Eldership,  30,  4. 

Bishops,  Xomination  of,  41,  2. 

Blanks  for  Reports  of  Congrega- 
tions to  Synods,  67,  7-68,  1. 

Boarding  Schools,  (see  Church 
Schools). 

Boards  of  Elders,  (see  Elders). 

Boards  of  Trustees,  (see  Trustees). 

Bohemian  Mission,  The,  97,  5-98,  6. 

Bond  of  Union  between  the  Pro- 
vinces, 1,  2. 

Brotherly  Agreement,  19,  6-21,  1. 

Brueder  Botscha/ter,  Dei;  120,  6- 
121,  4. 

Business  Meetings,  General,  28,  6. 

Care  of  the  Poor  and  Sick,  17,  3. 

Catechism,  The,  its  study  strongly 
urged,  3,  3. 

Certain  Capital  Funds,  91,  3;  92,  1. 

Cessation  of  a  Congregation,  13,  6. 

Changes  in  title-deeds  of  congre- 
gations, 13,  5. 

Charter  of  Linden  Hall  Seminary, 
113,  3-114,  3. 

(123) 


124 


Charter  of  Nazareth  Hall,  115,  a 
116,  2. 

Cliarter  of  Uig  Proviiu-ial  Board  of 
Churoh  Extension.  lIKi,  (i-lOT,  5. 

Cliartor  of  the  Pro\  incial  Elders' 
ConnTcnrc,  sn,  1-s:!,  :,. 

Cliarter  nt'  ilir  Thi'i )li )^ieal  Semi- 
nary, :!7,  s-:;s,  4. 

Charter  ol  tlio  Young  Ladies' Semi- 
nary at  Bethleliem,  112,  3-113,  2. 

Chief  Eldership  of  our  Saviour, 
Tlie,  8,  0. 

Children's  meetings,  3,  3. 

Choir  or  Class  Sj^stem,  Th«,  14,  6- 
15,  6. 

Christian  Union,  108,  1-8. 
Church  Collections,  14,  3. 
Church  Council,  The,  27,  5 ;  28,  2, 
4,  5. 

Church  Diary,  21,  5,  6. 
Church  Extension,  98,  7-107,  6. 
Cliurch  Extension,  (see  Provin- 
cial Board  of). 
Church  Extension  Fund,  The,  105, 

1,  2 ;  106,  3,  4. 
Church  Music,  8,  5. 

Church  Papers,  The,  116,  3-117,  7 ; 
119,  1-122,  2. 

Church  Property  is  Trust  Proper- 
ty, 13,  2-7,  14,  1. 

Church  Records,  22,  2-24,  5. 

Church  Rules,  19,  6-21,  1 ;  22,  1. 

Church  Schools,  84,  5 ;  85,  1,  7,  8 ; 
86,  1,  2;  109,  4-116,  2;  duty  of 
Principals,  110,  7-112,  2 ;  prin- 
ciple of  management,  109,  4; 
religious  instruction  in,  109,  7; 
110,  3 ;  teachers  are  cherished 
servants  of  tJie  Church,  100,  4-6. 

Circular  convening  Synods,  65,  7. 

Civil  Government,  Relations  to, 
24,  6,  7. 

Codifying  the  laws  of  the  Province, 
67,  1,  2. 

Collections  (see  Systematized  Col- 
lections). 

Collections,  14,  3. 

Communion  Liturgies,  118,  5-8. 

Communion  love-feasts  8,  2. 

Communion  Seasons,  6,  4. 

Complaints  concerning  Members, 
19,  3. 

Conditions  of  Educational  and 
Sustentational  Privileges,  88,  3-8. 

Conferential  or  collegiate  govern- 
ment, 44,  1. 

Contirmation  confers  membership, 
6,  2. 

Conformitv  to  Doctrinal  Standards, 

2,  1. 


Coniront  the  accused,  the  plaintiff 

shall,  19,  4. 
Congregation  Archives,  94,  3. 
Congregation  Conferences,  27,  5- 

28,  3. 

Constant  deficits  in  Institutions, 
85,  5. 

Constitution    of    the  Brethren's 

Unity,  The,  42,  1. 
Constitution  of  tlie  Province,  59,  4- 

01,  2. 

Contributions  for  tlie  support  of 

the  Congregation,  12,  4. 
Converted  Membership,  A,  10,  1  ; 

11,  5,  6. 

Corresponding  Delegates,  109,  3. 
Deacons,  41,  3,  5. 

Decisions  of  Boards  binding,  29,  3. 
Degrees  in  Discipline,  18,  5-8. 
Delegates  to  the  General  Synod, 

Election  of,  63,  1-4. 
Department   of  the   Unity,  (see 

Unity's  Elders'  Conference). 
Diary,  Church,  21,  5,  6. 
Director  of  Church  Music,  8,  5. 
Discipline,  17,  4-21,  2. 
Discontinuation   of  Institutions, 

85,  5.  ■ 

Districts  and  District  Synods,  78, 

4-  81,  6. 

District  Boards  of  Church  Exten- 
sion, 81,  1,  2,  5. 
District  Svnods,  Expenses  of,  65, 

5-  66,  4. 

Disputes  to  be  settled  bv  media- 
tion, 24,  7. 

Diversity  of  modes  of  Worship, 
4,  1-3. 

Duties  of  Parents,  3,  1. 

Duties  of  the  Principals  of  our 
Church-schools,  109,  7;  110,  1- 
112,  2. 

Early  connection  with  the  Church 
on  the  part  of  the  young  desir- 
able, 3,  1. 

Earnestness  in  Preaching,  11,  1. 

Editorial  Committees,  The,  119, 7,  8. 

Education  of  Youth,  109,  4-116,  2. 

Educational  Privileges,  89,  7-90,  1. 

Elders,  Boards  of,  decisions  bind- 
ing, 29,  3  ;  discipline,  17,  8,  9 ;  18, 
2,3;  19,  1-5;  disputes,  24,  6,  7 ; 
duties  of,  20,  4-:\0.  (i ;  love-feasts, 
8,  3;  pastoral  visits,  11,  2. 

Election  of  the  President  of  the 
Theological  Seminary,  74,  5. 

Eligible  for  office,  29,  2. 


126 


Employment  of  ordained  minis- 
ters "and  licentiates  from  other 
Churches,  2,  2. 

Envelope  Sj'stcm,  The,  13,  1. 

Krconeous  or  Unscriptural  Views, 
19,  3. 

Fxclusion,  18,  3 ;  19,  5  ;  20,  5. 
Expenses  of  Provincial  and  Dis- 
trict Synods,  65,  5-C(),  4. 
Expenses  of  General  Synods,  49,  3. 
Experience-meetings,  7,  4. 

Faithfulness  in  dealing  with  souls, 

.  10,4-11,6. 

Family  Worship,  2,  4. 

Filling  of  Vacancies  in  the  Pro- 
vincial Elders'  Conference,  76,  2- 
77,  1. 

Finances  of  the  America)!  Pro- 
vince, 81,  7-93,  6. 

Financial  Board,  Advisory,  85,  6 ; 
92,  (>-93,  6;  117,  3,  7. 

Financial  Crisis.  The  Pi'csent,  84, 
1-85,  6. 

Financial  Prohibition,  86,  3,  4. 
Financial  Rules  for  tlio  Moravian 

Publication  Office,  llii,  4-6. 
Foreign  Missions,  94,  4-97,  4.  (See 

Missions.) 
Fraternal  Delegates,  109,  3. 

General  Synods  (see  Synods,  Gen- 
eral). 

Gifts  and  Beqnests  to  the  Susten- 

tation  Fund,  86,  8. 
Government  of  our  Saviour,  The, 

8,  6. 

Head  of  the  Church,  Christ  Jesus 

is,  8,  6  ;  42,  1. 
History  of  the  Brethren's  Church, 

A,  117,  8. 

History  of  our  Church,  The,  to  be 
taught,  7,  3. 

Home  Missions,  98,  7-107,  6;  ad- 
mission as  a  regular  congrega- 
tion, 99,  2;  building  of  churches, 
101,  3-102,  1 ;  control  of  mission- 
aries, 98,  8 ;  financial  support, 
103,  2-6;  incitement  to  self-sup- 
port, 102,  2 ;  news  of  the  work, 
103,  7  ;  object  of,  98,  7;  organiza- 
tion of,  99,  1;  synodal  meeting 
for,  103,  1 ;  unpromising  fields, 
99,  3-100,  1.  (See  Provincial 
Board  of  Church  Extension). 

Home  Mission  Debt,  103,  8. 

Home  Mission  Societies,  102,  2-5. 

Home  Missionaries  Members  of 
Provincial  Synods,  ()5,  4. 


Immersion  of  Adulfs,  5,  10;  6,  1. 

Inciting  Homo  Missions  to  self- 
support,  10(1,  2. 

Incorporation  of  (Congregations, 
21,  1,  2. 

Incorporation,  Acts  of,  (see  Char- 
ters). 

Indian  Mission  in  Canada,  97,  3. 
Indian  Mission  in  Kansas,  97,  2,  3. 
Infant  Baptism,  5,  8,  9. 
Instruction  of  the  Youth,  2,  4;  3, 
1,  3. 

Integral  part  of  the  Brethren's 
Unitv,  The  American  Province 
an,  f,  1,  2. 

Intemperance,  25,  4-27,  1. 

Interests  of  all  parts  of  the  Prov- 
ince the  same,  1,  3. 

Joint-Meetings  of  Cinirch  Boards, 

28,  7;  29,  1. 
Joint  Board,  The,  85,  6  ;  92,  6-93,  6  ; 

117,  3,  7. 

Juvenile  Missionary  Societies, 
96,  6. 

Law-suits,  24,  6.  7. 

Lay  Activity,  10,  2,  3, 

Lav  )■<■|ll■('^^■Iltatic>n  at  Provincial 

SVuckIs,  14,  1;  ir,,  li.-.,  X 
Letters  of  Dismissal,  12,  3. 
Licensing  of  Candidates  for  the 

Ministry,  etc.,  2,  3. 
Linden  Hall  Seminary,  85,  2,  (see 

Church  Schools). 
Litanies  for  Suiidav  F.veiiiues,  5,  4. 
Litany,  The  I'se  oV,  t,  i;  ;  5,1-3. 
Little  Missionori/.  Tlie,  121,  5,  6. 
Lord's  Supper,  The,  (i,  3-6 ;  7,  1,  2. 
Lot,  The  use  of  tlie,  ii,  1-5. 
Love-feasts,  8,  2,  3. 

Members  living  at  a  distance,  11, 4. 
Members  of  Provincial  Synods, 
61,  1. 

Members,  Reception  of,  14,  5. 
Members  to  be  instructed  in  the 

Discipline,  18,  1—4. 
Memorial  Days,  7,  3. 
Ministerial  Obedience,  27,  2-4. 
Ministers  and  Church  Music,  8,  5. 
Ministers,  are   not  independent, 

27,  2. 

Ministers  and  Discipline,  17,  8,  9 ; 

18,  2,  3 ;  19,  1-5. 
Ministers,  Appointment  of,  30,  5- 

Min'isters,  duties  of,  29,  4-6 ;  30,  3. 
Ministers  subject  to  tlie  decisions 
of  Church  Boards,  29,  3. 


126 


Ministry,  The,  41,  1-0. 

Ministry,  (Jualifieations  for  the, 

2,  2;  sus]iensioii  from  the,  41,  4. 
Mission  Festivals,  9(i,  8  ;  102,  6,  7. 
Mission  in  Alaslia,  94,  5,  6;  95,  1. 
Mission   Praver-meetings,  95,  7 ; 

90,  1,  2;  98, '3. 
Mission  Sermons,  95,  0. 
Missionary  Dolicits,  95,  5;  90,  4. 
iSIissii)nai-v  S<>i'i('ti<>s,  <i(i,  0. 
jms.v/oii.s  Frcunil,  Drr,  122,  1,  2. 
Mode    of   oxercisiiit;-  Diseipline, 

19,  1,  2. 
Moniridii,  Tlii\  120,  1-5. 
Moravian  Manual,  Tlie,  118,  2,  3. 
Moravian  Publication  Ofiice,  IKi, 

3-117,  7. 

Mortiiafjes  on  Church  Property, 
13,  (i. 

Moiitlily  Communion  Seasons,  6,  4. 
Music,  Church,  8,  5. 

Native  Ibreiun  missionaries,  super- 
annuated, 97,  1. 

Nazareth  Hail,  115,  1-110,  2. 

New  York  (ierman  Cliurch,  104, 
1-3. 

Newport  and  Chnrcli  Extension 

Funds,  92,  2-4. 
Nomination  of  Bishops,  41,  2. 
Nomination  of  Ministers,  31,  2. 
Non-resident  Members,  11,  4. 
November  13th,  8,  0. 

Obedience  to  authorities  required 

from  the  ministers,  27,  2. 
Observance  of  Memorial  Days,  7,  3. 
Ol)servance  of  rules,  22,  1. 
Ordinations,  41,  1,  3,  5. 

Parochial  Schools,  10,  1-3. 
Parsonages  to  be  furnished,  12,  5. 
Passion  Week  Manual,  5,  5. 
Pastoral  Visits,  10,  4-0,  II,  2. 
Pastors  and  the  mission-work,  90, 
5,  0,  7. 

Pastors,  duty  of,  in  regard  to  the 
discipline,  18,  2;  in  regard  to  in- 
temperance, 20,  2,  3;  in  regard 
to  worldly  amusements,  25,  2; 
to  furnish"  letters  of  removal,  12, 
1-3  ;  to  hold  religious  conversa- 
tion with  members  at  stated 
times  and  as  occasion  offers,  10,  5. 

Pastoral  Visits,  the  duty  of  the 
elders  also,  11,  2;  to  be  frequent, 
10,  4;  if  possible  to  become  an 
opportunity  for  united  prayer, 
10,  0. 


Pensions  of  Ministers,  87,  5-88,  8. 
Personal  (!onversation,  17,  5. 
Petition,  Privilege  of,  31,  3. 
Poor,  Care  of  the,  17,  3. 
Prayer,  8,  1. 

Prayer-meetings,  4,  2  ;  7,  4-7. 
Preparation  for  the  Lord's  Supper, 
7,  2. 

Preparation  of  Church  Rules,  20,  4. 

Preparation  for  the  Ministry  in 
Private,  39,  2-40. 

Preparatory  instruction  of  Candi- 
dates for  membership,  14,  5. 

Presliyterate,  The,  41,  1,  5. 

Property,  church,  changes  in  title- 
deeds'subjeetto  rulingof  P.  E.  C, 
13,  5  ;  claim  upon,  null  upon  sev- 
erance of  connection  with  the 
Unity,  13,  3;  individual  memljers 
have  no  claim  upon,  13,4;  indi- 
vidual members  not  sul)ject  to 
liability  for  deljts  upon,  13,  4; 
mortgages  upon,  13,  0 ;  right  to, 
lost  by  secession,  13,  2;  to  be 
vested"  in  the  P.  E.  C,  in  trust,  13, 
0  ;  is  trust  property,  13,  0,  7. 

Provinces,  The  Three,  of  the 
Unity,  1,  2. 

Promulgation  of  Resolutions  of 
Synods,  00,  5. 

Proper  Financial-Support,  12,  0,  7. 

Provincial  Archives,  The,  93,  7- 
94,  2. 

Provincial  Board  of  Church  Ex- 
tension, The,  99,  4-100,  1;  101,  3; 
103,  (i ;  104,  4-107,  0. 

Provincial  Bv-Uaws,  02,  1-73;  75, 
0-78,  3  ;  79,  2-94,  3. 

Provincial  Constitution,  59, 4-61,  2 ; 
74,  5  ;  alterations  in,  75,  1. 

Provincial  Elders'  Conference, 
The,  accountable  to  Provincial 
Synods,  73,  1 ;  act  of  incorpora- 
tion, 81,  1-82,  5;  administrators 
of  the  Sustentation  Fund,  81,  7 ; 
the  Advisory  Finance  Board, 
92,  0-93,  5;  alterations  in  the 
Provincial  Constitution,  01,  2; 
annual  reports  of  pastors,  the,  21, 
3,  4  ;  annual  statement  of  contri- 
butions for  home  missions,  103, 
4;  annual  statistics,  77,  5;  annual 
succinct  report,  77,  0  ;  appoiut- 
ment  of  pastors,  74,  2,  5,  c ;  30,  5, 
0;  31,  1-3;  brotherly  agreements 
and  church  rules,  19,  o';  20,7;  20, 
3,  4;  building  of  liome-mission 
churches,  101,  3-102,  1 ;  church 
rules,  20, 1-21, 1 ;  control  of  home- 
missionaries,  98,  8  ;  consent  of, 


127 


necessary  to  iiioorporation,  20,  4; 
court  of  ai)peal,  '2i>,  :i;  discipline 
of  iiiiiiislcrs,  27,  2-4;  District 
Honnis  ol  Cliurcli  Extension,  81, 
2;  District  Synods,  81,4;  duties 
in  respect  to  the  clmrch  schools, 
110,  7-112,  2;  educational  privi- 
leges, 89,  0;  the  eldership,  30,  4; 
election  of,  73,  2 ;  75,  (i-7(>,  1 ;  43, 
4  ;  omi«)\\  cred  to  convene  the 
Provincial  Synod  in  an  emer- 
gency, o!),  4  ;  empowered  to  retire 
incompetent  ministers,  31,  4  ;  ex- 
penses of  administrative  govern- 
ment, 87,  1-4  ;  general  principle 
of  financial  management,  8(),  (i; 
the  incorporation  of  congrega- 
tions, 21,  1,  2;  investment  of 
funds,  8G,  7;  to  issue  blank  certi- 
ficates of  election  of  delegates  to 
tlie  Provincial  Synod.  <i4,  3,  4,  (i ; 
to  issue  blanks  for  application  for 
lay  representation  at  Provincial 
Synods,  05,  1-2;  membership  of, 
75,  2-4  ;  minutes  of,  77,  3,  4  ;  mis- 
sionary meeting  at  eacli  Synod, 
94,  4  ;  the  observance  of  rules,  22, 
1 ;  official  visitations,  78,  1-3;  or- 
ganization of,  77,  2;  report  con- 
gregations that  fail  to  support 
their  pastors,  12,  7  ;  rights  and 
duties  of,  73,  3-74,  5  ;  rules  for  the 
election  of,  75,  (5-76,  1  ;  salary  of, 
87,  4 ;  spread  of  home-missions, 
100,  3-() ;  to  stii)ulate  in  advance 
for  the  adetiuate  support  of 
those  appointed,  12,0;  supreme 
executive  boards  of  the  indi- 
vidual provinces,  73,  1,  2;  sus- 
>pension  from  the  ministry,  41,  4; 
sustentational  and  educational 
privileges,  88,  6,  7;  term  of  office 
of,  75,  5;  unpromising  fields,  99, 
3-100,  1 ;  vacancies  in  the,  76, 
2-77,  1. 

Provincial  Digest,  The,  00,  6-67,  2. 
Provincial  Revenue,  The,  87,  1-3. 
Provincial   Synods  (see  Synods, 

Provincial). 
Provincial  Trust  Funds,  90,  8-91, 2. 
Publication  Fund,  Special,  92,  5. 
Publication    Office,  The,   116,  3- 

117,  7. 


Qualifications  for  Eldership  and 

Trusteeship,  29,  4-.30,  4. 
Qualifications  for  the  Ministry, 

2,  2. 

(iuestions  at  Ordinations,  41,  5. 


Raising  certain  Capital  Funds,  91, 
3-92,  1. 

Reading  the  Chapter  on  the  Dis- 
cipline, 18.  1. 

Readmission,  19,  2.  5. 

ReCPptidM  (if  Mciiilx-rs,  I  I,  ;">. 

Reconis  (see  Clun-rli  U( t, ,r, is  i. 

Relation  ..f  ihc  A  iiuTican  l'vu\  inco 
to  the  Brethren's  l  iuty.  1,  1-2. 

Relief  of  the  Sustentation  Fund, 
84,  3. 

Removal  of  Members,  12,  1-3. 
Removals  of  Ministers,  expenses 

of,  87,  2. 
Reports  of  Treasurers,  14,  2. 
Reports  of  Pastors  (see  Annual 

Reports). 
Reserve  Fund,  85,  3. 
Resistance  to  (niurcli  Rules,  20,  5. 
RetiriMl    Ministers.  .-mH,.,.!  i,,n  for 

(see  Annual  <  ■..llc  Unns  . 
Retirement  tVuni  <  Mliri',  mi,  li. 
Retirement    from    the  ministry, 

31,  4. 

Revival  Services,  4,  1-3. 
Riiiht  Hand  of  Fellowslii)),  0,  3. 
Ritual,  rnilorniitv  of,  :!,  4,  :.. 
Rules    of   Order'  tor    i'r.ix  ineial 
Synods,  K),  4-  7:>. 


Sabbath  observance,  4,  4,  5. 

Secession  of  a  congregation  causes 
reversion  of  its  |iri>|H  i       I.".,  2,  3. 

Secret  Societies,  1. 

Sectional  feeling  and  assnnied  sec- 
tional interests  disapproved,  1,  4. 

September  16th,  8,  6. 

Services  of  the  Passion  Week,  5,5. 

Social  Prayer-meetings,  7,  6,  7. 

Special  Inctimbencies  of  the  Pro- 
vincial Synods  of  the  Northern 
District  of  the  American  Prov- 
ince, 59,  4-01,  2. 

Special  Publication  Fund,  The, 
92,  5. 

Spread  of  the  work,  100,  3-6. 
Statistical  Blanks,  The,  22,  1. 
Status  of  those  Confirmed  or  Baj)- 

tized,  6,  2. 
Sunday  Collections,  14,  3. 
Sunday  Scliools,  16,  4-7  ;  17,  1,  2. 
Sunday  Schools  and  Mission-work 

96,  5,  6. 

Sunday  Schools  and  the  Bohemian 

Mission,  98,  3. 
Sunday-school  Hymn-book,  The, 

8,  4;  118,  4. 
Sunday   School  Superintendents 

and  the  Mission-work,  96,  5,  6. 


i28 


Suporannunted    native  inission- 

arios,  :i7,  1. 
SupiH.i  i        l>;,sl..l-S,  12,  (i,  7. 
Surpli'T,  I  sc  ..r  Ihe,  5,  0,  7. 
Surplus  liicomo  of  tlie  Sustenta- 

tion  Fund,  85,  4. 
Suspension    from  Membership, 

IS,  7. 

Sns])cnsioii    from   the  Ministry, 

41,  t. 

Sustonl:ition  Fund,  The,  81,  7-86, 
8;  <)(»,  S-91,  2;  92,  6-93,  6. 

Sustentatioiial  and  Educational 
Privileges,  88,  4-8. 

Synods,  District,  78,  4-81,  6. 

Synods,  General,  44,  2-49,  3 ;  dele- 
gates to,  47,  1^;  expenses  of,  49, 
3;  German  version  of  the  Re- 
sults decisive,  49,  2;  may  be 
called  by  the  U.  E.  C.  in  extra- 
ordinary cases,  52,  4;  54,  1 ; 
members  of,  45,  1-47;  poweis  of, 
44,  5;  preparations  loi-.  17,  5; 
rules  of  procedure  Is,  i-Hi,  i; 
the  supreme  authority,  43,  1; 
temporary  validity  of  excep- 
tions to  '  enactments  of,  52,  5 ; 
54,  2. 

Synods,  Provincial,  advisory  mem- 
bers of,  69,  3 ;  alterations  la  the 
Provincial  Constitution,  61,  2; 
basis  of  representation  at,  63,  5 ; 
ceasing  to  be  self-supporting,  a 
congregation  loses  its  right  of 
representation  at,  65,  3 ;  court  of 
apjieal,  31,  4;  duties  and  powers 
of,  58,  1-59,  3;  duty  of  members 
to  attend,  67,  3  ;  election  of  dele- 
gates for,  64, 1-6 ;  election  of  dele- 
gates to  the  General  Synod,  63, 
1-4 ;  expenses  of,  65,  5-66,  4 ; 
foreign  missionary  meeting,  94, 
4 ;  home  missionary  meeting,  103, 
1 ;  members  of,  61,  1 ;  the  next, 
()2,  3-7 ;  number  of  delegates  to, 
63,  6-7;  opening  of,  62,  1;  or- 
dained home  missionaries  mem- 
bers of,  65,  4 ;  organization  of,  62, 
1,  2 ;  powers  of,  43,  3  ;  promulga- 
tion of  resolutions  of,  66,  5 ;  re- 
duction in  membership  of,  62,  8  ; 
reports  of  congregations  to,  67, 
6-68,  3 ;  reports  of  officers  and  b 
oards  to,  67,  4,  5;  right  to  repre- 
sentation at,  64,  7-65,  3 ;  rules  of 
order  for,  69,  4-73;  questions  to 
the  Secretary  of  Publications, 
119,  1-3  ;  sermons  before,  69,  1-2. 

Systematic  Beneficence,  13,  1. 


S.ystematization  of  Collections,  90, 
"2-6. 

Teachers'  meetings,  16,  5 ;  17,  2. 

Temperance  associations  to  be  en- 
couraged, 26,  1. 

Text  Book,  The,  3,  2;  appendix  to, 
118,  1. 

Thanksgiving  services  after  the 
Holv  Communion,  6,  6  ;  7,  1. 

Theological  Seminary,  The,  31,  5- 
39,  1;  Act  of  Incorporation,  37, 
8-38,  4;  annual  collection  for,  35, 
6-3(i,  1 ;  annual  prayer  day  for, 
35,  5  ;  connection  with  Nazareth 
Hall,  36,  2-3  ;  independent  finan- 
cial existence,  36,  7  ;  new  build- 
ing, 34,  2-<5;  pledge  of  office 
given  by  professors,  35,  3,  4; 
pledge  to  be  given  by  stmlenls 
on  entrance,  32,  3;  sdnlenis  to 
be  encouraged  to  projiare  I'or  the 
foreign  missions,  34,  8. 

Titles  in  trust,  13,  fw  ;  14,  1. 

Total  Abstinence  urged,  26,  4. 

Transfer  of  Membership,  19,  2. 

Traveling  Missionaries,  106,  5. 

Treasurei-s  to  report  annually, 
14,  2. 

Trustees,  Boards  of,  27,  5-28,  3; 

29,  4-30,  4 ;  30,  5-31,  3. 

Trust  Funds,  Provincial,  90,  8- 
93,  6. 

Tunes,  Our  own,  to  be  taught,  8,  5. 
Two  Boards  desirable  for  each  con- 
gregation, 30,  1. 

Uniformity  of  Ritual,  3,  4,  5. 

Unity,  The  Department  of  the,  43, 
2 ;  50,  1,  3  ;  53,  3 ;  election  of,  54, 
4-56,  1 ;  filling  vacancies  in,  56, 
3-57,  2 ;  organization  of,  51,  5  ;  re- 
signations from,  56,  3;  rights  and 
duties  of,  52,  1-54,  3 ;  59,  2. 

Unity's  Elders'  Conference,  The, 
49,  4-57,  4;  the  directing  board, 
49,  4 ;  50,  1 ;  election  of,  54,  4-56, 
1;  organization  of,  50,  2-51,  5; 
relation  to  the  German  Province, 
43,  5 ;  rights  and  duties  of,  52,  1- 
54,  3  ;  vacancies  in,  56,  2-57,  2 ; 
57,  4 ;  visitations  by,  57,  3. 

Universalism,  2,  1. 

Unscriptural  views  on  doctrinal 
points,  19,  3. 

Use  of  the  Lot,  The,  9,  1-5. 

Use  of  the  Surplice,  The,  5,  6,  7. 

Veto  of  Appointment  of  Ministers, 

30,  5-31,  1. 


129 


Visitations,  iiiiporfance  of  fre- 
quent, on  the  part  of  the  Depart- 
ment of  the  Unity,  57.  3  ;  on  the 
part  of  the  P.  E.  C.,  78.  1-3;  112, 


Western  Siistentation  Fund,  A, 
91,  2. 

Worldly  Amusements,  25,  2,  3. 


World's  Foreign  Missionary  Con- 
ferenoe,  97,  4. 

Yearly  reading  of  the  Chapter  on 

the  Discipline.  IS,  1. 
Young  Ladies'  SiMiiiiKn>-  ai  Reth- 

lehem  (see  Cluirch  Sri., mis). 
Young  men  to  be  i iiu  icstcd  in  lay 

aetivity,  10,  3. 


l! 

I 


